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Start using AALookup

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Set up your device, prepare a dictionary, and complete your first lookup.

Updated: 2026-10-06

Choose the right entry point

On Mac and Windows, AALookup can read text from other apps and show a lookup panel beside the word. On iPhone, iPad and Android, use the app to search dictionaries, save words and study. The website offers online dictionary pages and the Learn workspace; it does not read text from other apps.

Get the installer or current iOS distribution link from the download page. Features described here follow the current app implementation; availability also depends on your installed version, device permissions and account benefits. Check release notes when an entry is missing.

• Download AALookup
• Release notes

Set up a desktop

1. Open Getting Started and review its preparation checklist. On macOS, grant Accessibility access for reading text; allow Screen Recording when you want screen recognition.
2. Choose a working lookup trigger: a keyboard shortcut, a supported mouse gesture, or a three-finger trackpad tap on Mac. If OCR is enabled, finish the relevant permission or recognition-engine setup.
3. Add an online dictionary from the catalog or import local MDict files. When the collection is empty, continuing setup may try the recommended Learner’s English dictionary; a failed download does not prevent you from entering the app.
4. Enter the app directly or try an optional tutorial. Point at a word in another app, use your trigger, and read the result next to the word.

Start on a phone or tablet

1. Open the app and choose to sign in or start without an account. Sign-in is optional for local use.
2. Choose online or local dictionaries, or enter the app directly. An online dictionary needs a connection; an imported local dictionary can be read offline.
3. Search for a word, save it to Words, or open Study to select a book. Sign in later if you want account synchronization.

Pick your next task

• Look up words while reading
• Prepare dictionaries
• Study on mobile or the web