For academics Protected PDFs
Browser dictionary tools usually fail when text selection is blocked.
NearWord reads the visible text directly.
Read without leaving your flow
Look up any word on screen — even where browser extensions can't reach.
Core difference
Works outside the browser
NearWord reads pixels on screen, so you are not limited to selectable text.
For academics 
For immersion learners Video subtitles
Subtitles in native players are outside browser extension scope.
NearWord captures terms where you are watching.
For gamers Games and visual novels
In-game text is typically not selectable and difficult to copy.
NearWord keeps lookup in-flow without alt-tabbing.
How it works
Three steps, anywhere on your desktop
1
Capture
Any visible text
Trigger NearWord over subtitles, manga panels, or protected PDFs.
2
Understand
Meaning in context
See definitions, pronunciation, and nuance where you are reading.
3
Retain
History for review
Saved lookups stay on your device so you can revisit words later.
Why NearWord
Desktop-native by design
Built as a macOS citizen — not a browser workaround.
Pixel-level capture
Reads text directly from the screen — no selection required.
Global hotkey
One shortcut, anywhere — PDFs, games, video players.
Local-first storage
History stays on your Mac in ~/Library/NearWord/vocabulary.db.
Under 300 ms
End-to-end lookup, from hotkey to definition.
< 300 ms Avg lookup
Local-first Core lookup
Any app macOS app
Comparison
Why not a browser extension?
Browser extensions NearWord
Only works in the browser
Any app on screen
Needs selectable text
Reads pixels directly
Requires internet
Works offline
Cloud-first by default
Core lookup stays local
Breaks on PDFs and games
PDFs, games, subtitles
Trust & privacy
Built for private reading
Screen Recording permission is used to read pixels for lookups, not to record your activity.
Why Screen Recording?
NearWord uses macOS Screen Recording to read text in images, videos, games, and protected PDFs.
- Captured on demand
- Core OCR stays local
- No background recording
Data stays on your device
Lookup history and app settings are stored locally, and remain under your control.
No hidden analytics
No keystroke logging, no hidden analytics, and no background screen recording.
FAQ
Common questions
No. NearWord captures a single frame only when you trigger a lookup. Core OCR runs locally, and nothing is recorded in the background.
Yes. Core lookups — OCR and local dictionary — work entirely offline. AI-powered explanations require an internet connection.
NearWord requires macOS 13 (Ventura) or later. Both Apple Silicon and Intel Macs are supported.
Core OCR and local history stay on your device. Online dictionary, AI context, account, and billing features send only the data needed for those services.
Yes. NearWord reads pixels on screen, so it works with any application - browsers, PDF readers, games, video players, and more.
NearWord offers a free plan that covers core lookup and local history. NearWord Pro unlocks unlimited Context.