Dicobat, the technical building dictionary that spans generations

Technical vocabulary at the heart of the building trades

In the construction sector, the precision of the terms used determines the quality of communication between the various stakeholders in a project. Architects, construction economists, construction companies, design offices, and experts rely daily on a shared technical language to describe a structure, a problem, a material, or an implementation method.

This requirement is all the more important given that certain terms take on different meanings depending on the trade involved. The same word can thus be used in different contexts by a bricklayer, a roofer, a carpenter, or a locksmith, making access to a reliable source of documentation essential.

A specialist dictionary that has become a professional reference

Created in 1991, the Dicobat It was born from a simple observation: there was no general dictionary bringing together all the vocabulary of the building in a single work.

At the origin of the project, Jean de Vigan[Name], then in charge of training new sales representatives in the building materials sector, identified this gap during his research. After a market study confirming the needs expressed by professionals, he undertook the creation of a book devoted exclusively to the language of the building industry.

Four years of work and the processing of several cubic meters of technical documentation will be necessary to create a database encompassing nearly 16,000 definitions and 3,000 illustrationsThe Scientific and Technical Centre for Building (CSTB) participates in the review and validation of the main definitions.

A document database adapted to digital uses

After several printed editions and nearly 100,000 copies distributed, the Dicobat has evolved into an online platform accessible by subscription.

This digital version facilitates terminological research through various access methods: keyword search, thematic navigation, browsing history, and image exploration via the VisuelBAT tool. The goal is to enable professionals to quickly find a definition, component, or construction technique.

The tool also offers a French-English and English-French translation system covering more than 10,000 technical terms. This feature is particularly useful in projects involving international partners or when consulting foreign documentation.

Useful resources for technical writing and standards consultation

The platform brings together today 16,500 definitions et 3,500 illustrationsregularly updated. Users can integrate text and visuals into their own technical documents, reports or training materials.

Another feature intended for professionals: the link to the standards and DTUallowing the technical vocabulary to be linked to the references used in the design, execution or control practices of works.

Storing consultation history also facilitates research tracking and the creation of personal documentation over the course of projects.

A tool accessible on computers and smartphones

The service can be accessed via a web browser, including on smartphones thanks to a responsive interface. This compatibility allows site teams, project managers, and technicians to quickly find a technical definition directly on-site.

Access to the service is via an annual subscription. with a plan designed for the first user and a reduced cost for additional users. A trial period is also offered.

At a time when construction techniques continue to evolve and regulatory requirements are becoming more stringent, mastering professional vocabulary remains a real challenge for all stakeholders in the construction industry. By bringing together several decades of technical knowledge in a single document database, the Dicobat retains a special place among the reference tools of the building sector.