The dictionary incorporates modern English idiom and current Latin spelling and includes general classical information where appropriate.

Since its first appearance in 1854, this dictionary has remained constant in its appeal to scholars through its many revisions. This Latin dictionary is among the best of its kind, reliable, compact and adequate for the needs of all save the specialist. Simpson has produced a book typographically easy to consult, combining elegance with utility. This edition incorporates English idioms and Latin spelling, includes general classical information where appropriate, shows long and short vowels where not immediately apparent, indicates irregular plural forms, cites and quotes ancient classical authors, and suggests paraphrases to express modern English in classical Latin form.