A dictionary of scientific terms

A dictionary of scientific terms by Leo Markun is a compact scientific reference compiled in the early 20th century. It is a dictionary designed for general readers and students, offering brief, accessible explanations of terminology across physics, chemistry, biology, and related disciplines; its likely topic is clarifying scientific vocabulary and method.

The preface sets a modest scope, stressing clarity for non-specialists, noting disagreements over meanings, and including boundary terms that test what counts as science (such as common sense, philosophy, theology, superstition). The main text is an alphabetical glossary from Abasia to Zymurgy, covering taxonomy, anatomy, geology and geological eras, elements and symbols, units and instruments, mathematical and physical concepts, and core ideas in evolution, genetics, psychology, and astronomy. Entries are concise and practical, often giving plural forms, variant spellings, prefixes and roots, and cross-disciplinary notes, with occasional viewpointed remarks on scientific method (hypothesis, theory, law), contested notions (instinct, ether, vitalism), and the value of metrics and standards. The result is a quick-reference guide aimed at orienting readers to essential meanings and usage across the scientific lexicon.