Denotation
noun
The exact or primary meaning of a word or expression.
The term 'home' has connotations of security and comfort for many people, in addition to its denotation of being a place where one lives.
Often appears as...
- denotation of a word
- primary denotation
noun
A thing that is indicated or referred to by a word or symbol.
In every scientific theory, each term or symbol has a specific denotation in the form of a physical quantity or concept.
Often appears as...
- scientific denotation
- symbol's denotation
Usage tips
Technical
noun
The exact or primary meaning of a word or expression.
The term 'home' has connotations of security and comfort for many people, in addition to its denotation of being a place where one lives.
Often appears as...
- denotation of a word
- primary denotation
noun
A thing that is indicated or referred to by a word or symbol.
In every scientific theory, each term or symbol has a specific denotation in the form of a physical quantity or concept.
Often appears as...
- scientific denotation
- symbol's denotation
Usage tips
Technical
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Literal Interpretation
Denotation refers to the straightforward, dictionary meaning of a word without implying feelings or ideas.
The denotation of 'snake' is simply a reptile, without the negative connotations some people associate with it.
Pro Tip 2/3Multiple Meanings
Some words have more than one denotation, so context determines the correct meaning.
Depending on context, 'bark' can have the denotation relating to a tree or a dog's sound.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Variations
The denotation of words can change across cultures, even if the language is the same.
In British English, 'biscuit' has the denotation of what Americans would call a 'cookie'.
Pro Tip 1/3Literal Interpretation
Denotation refers to the straightforward, dictionary meaning of a word without implying feelings or ideas.
The denotation of 'snake' is simply a reptile, without the negative connotations some people associate with it.
Pro Tip 2/3Multiple Meanings
Some words have more than one denotation, so context determines the correct meaning.
Depending on context, 'bark' can have the denotation relating to a tree or a dog's sound.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Variations
The denotation of words can change across cultures, even if the language is the same.
In British English, 'biscuit' has the denotation of what Americans would call a 'cookie'.
Pro Tip 1/3Literal Interpretation
Denotation refers to the straightforward, dictionary meaning of a word without implying feelings or ideas.
The denotation of 'snake' is simply a reptile, without the negative connotations some people associate with it.
Pro Tip 2/3Multiple Meanings
Some words have more than one denotation, so context determines the correct meaning.
Depending on context, 'bark' can have the denotation relating to a tree or a dog's sound.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Variations
The denotation of words can change across cultures, even if the language is the same.
In British English, 'biscuit' has the denotation of what Americans would call a 'cookie'.
Never forget "Denotation"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension