Using the Kindle app on Windows 11 is a great way to enjoy your favorite books digitally. However, sometimes the dictionary feature may stop working, which can be frustrating when you want quick word definitions. Fortunately, fixing this issue is usually straightforward.
This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to restore the Kindle dictionary functionality on your Windows 11 device. Each step is explained clearly to help you understand why it matters.
By following these instructions, you can get back to reading with all the helpful tools at your fingertips. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into detailed solutions.
Whether you are new to Windows or Kindle apps, these steps are designed to be easy and clear for everyone.
Quick Note: Pre-Check Before Troubleshooting
- Ensure your Kindle app is updated: Older versions may have bugs affecting the dictionary feature.
- Check your internet connection: Some dictionary lookups require an active connection.
- Confirm your book supports dictionary lookups: Not all formats or documents allow dictionary access.
- Restart the Kindle app: Sometimes a simple restart fixes minor glitches.
Step 1: Restart Your Windows 11 Device
Before trying complex solutions, restart your computer. This refreshes system resources and closes any background apps that might interfere with the Kindle app.
- Click the Start button on the lower-left corner.
- Select Power and then Restart.
- After your PC restarts, open the Kindle app again and check if the dictionary works.
Restarting often resolves temporary software conflicts.
Step 2: Update the Kindle App
Kindle regularly releases updates to fix bugs and improve features. Using an outdated version can cause problems with dictionary functions.
- Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows 11 PC.
- Click on the Library icon at the bottom left.
- Find Kindle in the list of installed apps.
- If an update is available, click Update.
- Once updated, launch the app and try the dictionary again.
Keeping apps updated ensures compatibility and access to the latest features.
Step 3: Check Language and Dictionary Settings in the Kindle App
The dictionary may not work if the language settings inside the app are incorrect or set to a language without a dictionary.
- Open the Kindle app and open any book.
- Tap or click on a word to bring up the dictionary popup.
- If no definition appears, look for a settings or language icon in the popup.
- Ensure the dictionary language matches the book’s language (usually English).
- If needed, change the dictionary to the correct language and try again.
Matching the dictionary to the book’s language is crucial for accurate word definitions.
Step 4: Clear Kindle App Cache and Data
Corrupted cache or app data can cause the dictionary to malfunction. Clearing these can help fix the issue.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Apps & features.
- Scroll down and find Kindle.
- Click on it and select Advanced options.
- Scroll to the Reset section.
- Click Repair first (this tries to fix without data loss).
- If that doesn’t work, click Reset (note: this will clear app data).
- Open Kindle again and check if the dictionary works.
Clearing cache resolves any corrupted temporary data that might be blocking dictionary access.
Step 5: Reinstall the Kindle App
If previous steps fail, reinstalling the app can fix deeper problems by giving you a fresh installation.
- Open Settings and navigate to Apps > Apps & features.
- Find Kindle, click it, and select Uninstall.
- Confirm the uninstallation.
- Restart your computer for a clean slate.
- Open the Microsoft Store, search for Kindle, and install it again.
- Sign in with your Amazon account and test the dictionary feature.
Reinstalling solves issues caused by corrupted app files.
Alternative Method: Use an Online Dictionary
As a temporary workaround, you can use an online dictionary while reading your Kindle books.
- Highlight or note down the word you want to look up.
- Open a web browser and visit sites like Dictionary.com or Merriam-Webster.
- Type the word and read the definition.
This method requires internet access but can be handy if the Kindle dictionary is temporarily unavailable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the Kindle dictionary not working only for some books?
Some books, especially PDFs or documents not purchased through Amazon, may not support dictionary lookups. The feature works best with Kindle Store books.
Does the Kindle dictionary work offline?
Yes, but only if the dictionary files are downloaded. If not, the app needs internet access to fetch definitions.
Can I add custom dictionaries to the Kindle app on Windows?
The Kindle app does not support adding custom dictionaries. You must use the built-in dictionaries provided by Amazon.
My dictionary popup shows a blank window. What should I do?
This could be caused by corrupted app data. Try clearing the Kindle app cache or reinstalling the app as described above.
Is the Kindle dictionary language different from the book language?
Yes, if the dictionary language does not match the book’s language, definitions may not appear. Always check your Kindle app’s dictionary settings.
When Nothing Works
If none of the above solutions fix the dictionary issue, consider these final options:
- Contact Amazon Kindle Support: Visit Amazon’s support page for specialized help.
- Check for Windows 11 updates: Sometimes system updates fix app compatibility problems.
- Try Kindle on another device: Confirm if the issue is specific to your PC or account.
- Use Kindle Cloud Reader: Access your books via Kindle Cloud Reader in a browser as an alternative.
Conclusion
Having the Kindle dictionary working correctly enhances your reading experience by allowing instant word definitions. Start with simple steps like restarting your device and updating the Kindle app. Then proceed to check settings, clear cache, or reinstall if necessary.
Remember, matching dictionary language to the book and ensuring your app is current are key to smooth functionality. If all else fails, Amazon support and alternative reading options are available to help you keep enjoying your books.
By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to fix Kindle dictionary issues on your Windows 11 device quickly and easily.