Merriam-Webster Terms of Use

Implications

• Acceptance of Terms: Using the Services indicates agreement to these Terms of Use.
• Changes to Terms: Merriam-Webster can modify Terms of Use without direct consent, just notification.
• COPPA Compliance: Protects the privacy of users under 13 years of age.
• Third-Party Links: Services may contain links to other websites not controlled by Merriam-Webster.
• Affiliate Links: Merriam-Webster may earn a commission from third-party affiliate links without direct endorsement.
• User Registration: Requires email, username, and password for certain features.
• Username Policy: Usernames must comply with specific guidelines.
• Privacy Notice: Outlines the collection and use of personal information.
• Ownership: Content is protected by copyright and trademark laws.
• Advertisements: May appear within the Services unless you have a subscription.
• Educational Use: Content can be used for non-commercial educational purposes.
• Content Restrictions: Limitations on how the content can be used and shared.
• User Generated Content (UGC): Users can post comments and materials under certain conditions.
• UGC Responsibility: Users are responsible for their own UGC and its legality.
• UGC License Grant: Users retain the right to reuse their UGC.
• Linking to Services: Guidelines provided for linking to Merriam-Webster content.
• Mobile Applications: Terms apply to mobile app usage as well.
• Disclaimer of Warranties: Services are provided "as is" without warranties.
• Limitation of Liability: Limits Merriam-Webster's liability for damages.
• Indemnification: Users must indemnify Merriam-Webster for certain types of claims.
• Governing Law: Disputes governed by the laws of the United States and the State of Delaware.
• Class Action Waiver: Users cannot participate in class-action lawsuits against Merriam-Webster.
• Claims Time Limit: Disputes must be filed within one year.
• Opt-Out of Ads: Users can opt out of certain types of ads.
• Not Advice: Information is not intended as professional advice.
• Severability: If any provision is invalid, others still apply.
• Survival: Certain provisions remain in effect after termination of the Terms.
• Waiver: Failure to enforce a provision is not a waiver of that provision.
• Entire Agreement: These Terms constitute the entire agreement between the user and Merriam-Webster.

Things to watch out for

• Merriam-Webster can change the Terms of Use at any time with only notification, not consent.
• Content usage is strictly regulated, and unauthorized use could lead to legal action.
• Users are responsible for any legal issues arising from their User Generated Content.
• Class action lawsuits are waived, limiting users' legal recourse in disputes.

AI recommendations

Before using Merriam-Webster's Services, it's important to understand that any content you contribute as a user becomes licensed to Merriam-Webster, and you should be cautious about sharing personal information in User Generated Content. Be aware that the terms can change, and you should periodically review them, especially if you rely on the Services for educational or research purposes. If you have a subscription, keep your login credentials secure, as you are responsible for any activity under your account.

FAQs

What happens if Merriam-Webster changes the Terms of Use?

If the Terms of Use are changed, Merriam-Webster will notify users through the Services or other means. Continued use of the Services after changes implies acceptance of the new terms.

Can I use Merriam-Webster's content for my own purposes?

You may use the content for personal, non-commercial use, and for limited non-profit educational purposes. For any other uses, you need to obtain permission from Merriam-Webster.

What should I do if I believe my User Generated Content is wrongly removed?

If you believe your content was removed in error, you can submit a counter-notification to Merriam-Webster, but you must follow the specific process outlined in the Terms of Use.