reference

[au secours]

Can anyone recommend a really good, comprehensive dictionary for use with crosswords? I've been using the WH Smith Definitive English Dictionary, 1999 edition, and, although it's superb, it's getting a tad outdated. Sadly, WH Smith haven't produced a more up-to-date version. I'm a Saturday Daily Telegraph General Knowledge and cryptic fan.
Many thanks in advance for any advice.

[ash24]

I use Chambers 2004. I find that it has everything I need ... and moreover, depending on the Crosswords you wish to do of course, many are based on Chambers.
In support of this, I cite all of the Times Crosswords - and specifically the Mephisto. Chambers has stood me in good stead for decades.

[JMR27]

I agree with ash24. We have a few dictionaries but the one I use most is Chambers

[Magyar]

Ditto My last two have both been Chambers and when this one is ready for replacement I'll get Chambers again.

[Strix]

It is generally accepted that the Telegraph uses Chambers as its dictionary of choice for its crosswords.
Collins and the OED only, very occasionally, provide the answers.
None of us, as far as I can assess, reckon that Kate Mepham uses only one dictionary or source for the General Knowledge (Saturday) and Herculis (Monday) crosswords.
In fact, it would seem, KM uses the internet (Wikipedia et al) as a source for the answers as well as the clues.
As a result there are sometimes very "alternative" spellings!

[aunty beanie]

Like everybody else I have used Chambers for decades but it seems to me that Collins are beginning to challenge their lead in some areas, it depends on which crosswords you do.

[Brooksy]

I would not recommend cheap versions of Chambers or Collins, which give only a few definitions of a word and omit its origin. Funnily enough, the best one for comprehensive meanings and origins is a 25 year old Oxford concise. The huge Websters is not bad either.

[au secours]

Many thanks for all the responses. Your advice much appreciated. I take the point re avoiding a cheap Chambers as I did fall to the temptation of a 'bargain' and regretted it. I've also noticed that in many shops the dictionaries are sealed, so you can't look through them to do a quick check, which is a pain. But I suppose that's done to prevent them getting mauled and tatty, and they are quite pricey, so it's understandable. So, Chambers it is.
I google quite alot when I'm really stuck, and use this fantastic web-site, but I prefer to troll through reference books first.
Thanks again one and all.

[Gill1941]

Belatedly joining in. I, too, use Chambers and Collins - I find them both good but as you say not the cheap versions. I also find invaluable Bradford's Crossword Solver's Dictionary which I have been using for years now. Mine is 2004 but I believe it is updated annually. Good luck.