Product details
- Brand
- Franklin Electronics
- Model / system
- MWD-1440 / BOOKMAN II
- Product type
- Electronic dictionary and thesaurus
Description
The MWD-1440 keeps a dictionary and thesaurus in a dedicated handheld device. Type a word on the keyboard, read its entry on the multi-line display, then explore related words or use spelling assistance when you are unsure of the exact spelling.
It is a legacy reference product for readers, writers and word-game enthusiasts who want a compact, self-contained lookup tool. The content is built in rather than continuously updated online, so the vocabulary reflects its published edition and does not promise coverage of every recent term.
Features
- Built-in dictionary: over 100,000 words with definitions in the original specification.
- Thesaurus lookup: synonyms and related-word links; the catalog advertises links to 500,000 words.
- Spelling assistance: helps find entries from an uncertain or phonetic spelling.
- Five-line display: shows several lines of an entry at once.
- Learning and games: word-study activities and built-in games alongside the reference tools.
- Everyday utilities: calculator plus metric and currency conversion.
- BOOKMAN II slot: accepts compatible optional book cards.
Specifications
| Brand / model | Franklin MWD-1440 |
|---|---|
| Built-in reference | Merriam-Webster dictionary and thesaurus |
| Dictionary scope | Over 100,000 words, per original specification |
| Display | 5-line display, catalog-listed |
| Controls | Physical keyboard and dedicated function keys |
| Expansion | One compatible BOOKMAN II book-card slot |
| Power | Two CR2032 3 V lithium coin batteries |
| Currency conversion | User-entered rate; not a live exchange-rate feed |
Reference, study and word play
The catalog's large thesaurus number describes word links, not 500,000 separate dictionary definitions. The built-in reference can be used without purchasing an additional book card.
| Dictionary | Look up meanings and available usage information. |
|---|---|
| Thesaurus | Explore alternatives and related words without treating them as interchangeable in every context. |
| Spelling help | Try the sound or partial spelling of an unfamiliar word. |
| Learning tools | Use the included word-study activities for practice. |
| Games | The original manual describes nine games, including Hangman and Anagrams. |
Buying and using a legacy BOOKMAN device
Check any optional card against the MWD-1440 and BOOKMAN II system before purchase. A book-card slot does not mean that every Franklin card or a modern memory card will work. Follow the manual's instructions when installing cards or replacing batteries, and keep a separate copy of important saved entries.
What's included
- One Franklin MWD-1440 dictionary and thesaurus
An additional book card and fresh operating batteries are not confirmed as included. Verify the supplied unit's condition and accessories if those are essential.
Common questions
Does the dictionary need an internet connection?
Its dictionary and thesaurus are built-in reference content. An online connection is not required for those lookups.
Is a BOOKMAN card necessary to use it?
No. The built-in dictionary and thesaurus are available on the device. The card slot is for compatible additional content.
Does currency conversion update automatically?
No. The user enters the conversion rate. The unit does not supply a live exchange-rate service.
Can it be used in an exam?
Check the rules of the particular school or examination. Its study features do not establish permission to use it during a test.
Product information & sources
Reference scope and display information follow the original catalog. The manufacturer user guide confirms batteries, book-card handling and currency entry, and corrects the former description's five-game count to the manual's nine. Franklin MWD-1440 original user guide; Franklin MWD-1440 manual index. Reviewed September 2026.
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