Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Recognizing a word refers to the process of identifying and comprehending the meaning of a written or spoken word. It involves decoding the visual symbols (letters) and attaching meaning to them based on prior knowledge.
Related terms
Phoneme: Phonemes are the smallest units of sound in language. They are essential for recognizing words because they help us differentiate between different sounds in speech.
Orthographic Processing: Orthographic processing refers to how we recognize and process written words as visual symbols. It involves understanding spelling patterns, letter combinations, and word structures.
Semantic Priming: Semantic priming occurs when exposure to one word influences our ability to recognize or respond to related words. It shows how our brains make connections between words based on their meanings.