Why can't I select, copy and paste dictionary definitions on my iPhone?

1. Get into a philosophical debate with a friend on iOS Messages.
2. Realize that your friend doesn't understand one of the words that you just used.
3. Type the word in the text field and tap it to look up the definition.
4. Read the definition smugly.
5. Tap the blue Search Web button on the bottom right of the screen.
6. In the web search results select one (such as dictionary.reference.com)
7. Copy the results from the source you selected.
8. Tap the Back to Messages text at the top left of the screen.
9. Tap in the text field.
10. Tap Paste, Send, then annoy your friend.

You can either:

Send feedback to Apple here: http://www.apple.com/feedback

Or use another dictionary app that will allow you to copy and paste.

I speculate the reason you cannot copy and paste from the dictionary is plagiarism.

Instead, you could take a screen shot of the definition by briefly pressing the home and on/off keys together until you hear a shutter clicking sound. Then the screen shot will be available in your Camera Roll.

Speculation? Breaking the rules?

There just is no editing functions within that popup in the Messages app.

Yes, I understand, thanks. I should not have speculated.

It was a joke regarding the ToU here. Not a big thing and for some dictionaries you are probably correct.