Ciyue is a dictionary app that reads MDX/MDD and StarDict dictionary files, so you can look up words using the same dictionary files that work on desktop dictionary programs. It's available for Android, Windows, Linux, and macOS, and includes extra study tools like flashcards and a mistake book for people learning a language.
Developer: mumu-lhl · License: MIT (open source) · Price: Free
Before you start: if you want AI translation, AI chat, or AI writing check features, you will need to supply your own API key for a provider such as OpenAI, Gemini, or DeepSeek inside the app's settings. Dictionary lookup and the other core features work without any key, but you will need to add your own MDX/MDD or StarDict dictionary files (see the project's Wiki for recommended dictionaries).
Official file from the developer's release · Nov 3, 2026 · SHA-256 07b6edaa9132a7c2…
Screenshots
Key features
- Support for MDX/MDD and StarDict dictionary formats
- Search across multiple dictionaries at once
- Multi-source translation, including free services and AI providers like OpenAI, Gemini, and DeepSeek
- Word book and mistake book with review quizzes, plus flashcards using FSRS spaced repetition
- Floating window for looking up words in any app, with read aloud and Material You design
Why isn’t Ciyue on Google Play?
Ciyue is published by its developer on GitHub and is also available on F-Droid, rather than on the Google Play Store.
Is Ciyue safe?
Ciyue is open source under the MIT license, and the APK on the GitHub releases page is built by the developer. The app needs INTERNET permission for its WebView to display dictionary entries (even local ones) and for optional features like checking for updates or contacting AI providers, but the developer states it does not make requests on its own beyond that. Ciyue comes straight from its developer rather than through Google Play, so it hasn’t gone through Google’s app review. As with any app, check the permissions it asks for and install it if you’re comfortable with them.
How to install
- Tap the download button above: the APK file downloads straight to your phone.
- When Android asks, allow your browser to install unknown apps.
- Open the file and tap Install.
FAQ
Is Ciyue free
Yes. Ciyue is free and open source under the MIT license. The developer accepts optional donations through Afdian, Unifans, or WeChat, but these are not required to use the app.
Where do I get dictionary files for Ciyue
Ciyue does not come with dictionaries built in. You need to add your own MDX/MDD or StarDict files; the project's GitHub Wiki has a list of recommended dictionaries.
How is Ciyue different from a basic dictionary app
Besides looking up words, Ciyue can search multiple dictionaries at once, translate using free or AI-based services, read words aloud, and help you study with a word book, mistake book, and spaced-repetition flashcards.
More free apps you won’t find on Google Play: Open Source Apps · Best Android apps not on the Google Play Store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ciyue free
Yes. Ciyue is free and open source under the MIT license. The developer accepts optional donations through Afdian, Unifans, or WeChat, but these are not required to use the app.
Where do I get dictionary files for Ciyue
Ciyue does not come with dictionaries built in. You need to add your own MDX/MDD or StarDict files; the project's GitHub Wiki has a list of recommended dictionaries.
How is Ciyue different from a basic dictionary app
Besides looking up words, Ciyue can search multiple dictionaries at once, translate using free or AI-based services, read words aloud, and help you study with a word book, mistake book, and spaced-repetition flashcards.
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