Denotation and Connotation

Denotation is the literal, dictionary definition of a word—the explicit meaning you find when you look it up. Connotation, on the other hand, refers to the feelings, associations, or implied meanings that a word brings to mind beyond its dictionary definition. For example, the denotation of "home" is a place where someone lives, while its connotations might include warmth, security, or comfort. Understanding both helps us communicate more precisely and interpret messages more deeply, as words can carry emotional or cultural implications beyond their straightforward meanings.