When typing a document in Microsoft Word, you can use a tool to make sure you have spelled all your words correctly. Sometimes, you may need to add a word to the dictionary if Microsoft Word does not recognize it.

In Microsoft Word, there are two ways you can add a new word to the dictionary. Select a link below for the method you want to use and follow the steps provided.

Add new word through a custom dictionary

  • In the menu bar, click the File tab, then click Options.

  • In the Word Options window, click the Proofing option in the left navigation pane.

  • Under the When correcting spelling in Microsoft Office programs header, make sure the box is unchecked for the Suggest from main dictionary only option.

  • Click the Custom Dictionaries button.

  • In the Custom Dictionaries window, select the dictionary set as the default dictionary, then click the Edit Word List button.

  • Add new word through a custom dictionary.

  • Add new word during a spell check

  • Type the word you want to add in the Word(s) text field.

  • Click the Add button to add the word to the Microsoft Word dictionary.

  • Click the OK button on each of the open windows to save the dictionary changes.

Add new word during a spell check

  • As you are typing text in the document, any words that Microsoft Word considers to be misspelled have a red squiggly line underneath them. Right-click the word with a red squiggly line under it.
  • In the pop-up menu that opens, select Spelling, then the Add to Dictionary option.
  • How to spell check a document.
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  • Microsoft Word questions and answers.