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Other PDF Issues

How to Request an Open-Source Dictionary in Adobe Acrobat Reader

John WilsonJohn Wilson Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users want to integrate an open-source dictionary application like ColorDict directly into the PDF reader's text selection menu to look up words without leaving the app.

How to Request an Open-Source Dictionary in Adobe Acrobat Reader
Product
Adobe Acrobat Reader
Device & OS
Android
Scenario
Reading PDF documents and needing to quickly look up the definitions or etymology of unfamiliar words using an in-app dictionary.
Observed behavior
Adobe Acrobat Reader currently lacks built-in integration with open-source dictionaries, forcing users to exit the reading view to look up words.
Before you start

Ensure your Adobe Acrobat Reader app is updated to the latest version on the Google Play Store, as developers occasionally add new reading tools based on user feedback.

Solution 1Recommended

Submit a Feature Request to Adobe

Since native integration for open-source dictionaries like ColorDict is currently missing, the best approach is to officially request the feature from the Adobe product team.

Adobe relies on user feedback to prioritize new app features. Submitting a structured request explaining the need for language and etymology plugins can help push dictionary integration onto their development roadmap.

1
Access the Feedback Form

Open your web browser and navigate to the official Adobe Acrobat Reader Feature Request or Bug Report Form.

2
Fill in Device Details

Select Android as your operating system and provide your current Acrobat Reader app version.

3
Describe the Request

Clearly explain that you would like an open-source dictionary option (such as ColorDict) added directly to the text selection menu for seamless word lookup.

4
Submit Your Feedback

Click the submit button to send your request to the product team, and monitor the Adobe user voice forums for any status updates.

Alternative Workarounds: While waiting for the feature, you can use Android's split-screen mode or floating dictionary apps alongside Acrobat Reader to minimize context switching.
Seamless PDF Reading and Translation

Read and Translate PDFs Easily with WPS Office

If your current PDF reader lacks the robust reading and lookup features you need, switch to WPS Office. The WPS PDF reader includes powerful text selection tools and built-in translation features to help you understand complex documents without constantly switching apps.

  1. 1. Install the App: Download and install WPS Office from the Google Play Store onto your Android device.
  2. 2. Open the PDF Reader: Launch WPS Office and navigate to the 'PDF' tab to access the integrated PDF reading environment.
  3. 3. Load Your Document: Open your target PDF file from your local storage or connected cloud drive.
  4. 4. Select and Translate: Long-press any unfamiliar word or phrase to bring up the text selection menu, then choose the built-in translation or lookup tools to instantly read definitions.
Built-in text translation and comprehensive reading assistance tools.Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and standard PDFs.Lightweight, fast, and free to download for mobile devices.Cross-platform support ensures your documents are synced across Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I link ColorDict directly to Adobe Acrobat Reader on Android?

No, Adobe Acrobat Reader currently does not support native integration with external or open-source dictionary applications like ColorDict within its text selection menu.

How do I look up unfamiliar words in Adobe Acrobat Reader?

Without a built-in dictionary plugin, you must long-press the text to copy the word, then exit or switch from the Acrobat Reader app to paste the word into a separate dictionary app or web browser.

Are there other PDF readers for Android that support dictionary lookups?

Yes, several e-reader applications and comprehensive office suites like WPS Office offer built-in translation and reading assistance tools that reduce the need for third-party dictionary plugins.

Will Adobe add a dictionary feature in the future?

Adobe frequently updates its applications based on user demand. Submitting a detailed feature request through their official channels is the best way to encourage the development team to add open-source dictionary support.