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🤌🏽intro to linguistics review

Word meaning

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Word meaning refers to the significance or interpretation of a word, encompassing its definition, nuances, and usage in different contexts. It is a fundamental aspect of language that connects directly to how we understand and convey ideas through vocabulary. The meaning of a word can be influenced by various factors, including its connotation, denotation, and the semantic relationships it has with other words.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Word meaning is often divided into two main types: denotation, which is the literal definition, and connotation, which involves the emotional or cultural associations linked to the word.
  2. Context plays a crucial role in determining word meaning, as the same word may convey different meanings based on the surrounding words or the situation in which it is used.
  3. Words can evolve over time, with their meanings changing due to cultural shifts, technological advancements, or shifts in societal norms.
  4. Understanding word meaning is essential for effective communication, as it helps speakers convey their thoughts accurately and listeners interpret messages correctly.
  5. Lexical semantics is the branch of linguistics that specifically examines how words acquire their meanings and how they relate to one another within a language.

Review Questions

  • How does context influence word meaning in language?
    • Context plays a vital role in shaping word meaning by providing clues about how a word should be interpreted. For example, the word 'bank' can refer to a financial institution or the side of a river depending on the context it is used in. This illustrates that understanding the surrounding words and overall situation is essential for grasping the intended meaning behind a word.
  • In what ways do denotation and connotation contribute to our understanding of word meaning?
    • Denotation refers to the literal definition of a word, while connotation encompasses the additional emotional or cultural meanings attached to it. For example, the word 'home' denotes a place where someone lives but carries positive connotations of warmth and safety. Together, these aspects provide a fuller understanding of how words function in communication and influence our perceptions.
  • Evaluate the impact of polysemy on language comprehension and communication.
    • Polysemy can significantly impact language comprehension since a single word with multiple meanings can create ambiguity in communication. For instance, if someone says they 'saw a bat,' it may refer to either an animal or a sports equipment depending on context. Evaluating this phenomenon highlights the importance of context clues and speaker intent in effectively conveying and interpreting messages. This complexity showcases both the richness of language and potential challenges in everyday communication.