Dictionary Of Modern Written Arabic
(Hans Wehr)
A Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic, commonly referred to as the Hans Wehr Dictionary, is a seminal Arabic-English dictionary renowned for its comprehensive coverage of Modern Standard Arabic vocabulary. Compiled by German Arabist Hans Wehr, the dictionary was first published in German in 1952 under the title Arabisches Wörterbuch für die Schriftsprache der Gegenwart. An English edition, edited by J. Milton Cowan, was released in 1961. 
Key Features:
• Root-Based Organization: Entries are systematically arranged according to the traditional Arabic root system, facilitating a deeper understanding of word derivations and interrelations. 
• Descriptive Approach: The dictionary emphasizes actual usage, incorporating words and expressions attested in contemporary contexts such as literature, newspapers, and official documents. 
• Transliteration System: Hans Wehr developed a specific transliteration scheme to represent Arabic script, aiding non-native speakers in accurate pronunciation. 
Editions and Availability:
• Fourth Edition: The most recent edition, significantly enlarged and amended, includes approximately 13,000 new entries, totaling around 26,000 words. 
• Formats: The dictionary is available in both hardcover and paperback formats. Notably, the authorized paperback edition is published by Spoken Language Services, Inc.  
• Digital Access: A digitized version of the dictionary is accessible through the Internet Archive, providing users with online reference capabilities. 
Significance in Arabic Studies:
The Hans Wehr Dictionary is widely regarded as an essential resource for students, scholars, and translators of Modern Standard Arabic. Its meticulous compilation and user-friendly structure have made it a cornerstone in Arabic-English lexicography.  
In summary, A Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic by Hans Wehr stands as a pivotal tool in the study and mastery of Modern Standard Arabic, offering an in-depth and practical reference for a wide array of users.
