Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
homonym
Noun
/ˈhɒmənɪm/
Definition
A word that is pronounced the same as another word but has a different meaning and often a different spelling.
Examples
- The word ‘bat’ can refer to a flying mammal or a piece of sports equipment.
- ‘Row’ can mean a line of things or the act of propelling a boat forward.
Meaning
Homonyms are words that can sound identical but can differ in meaning and usage, which can sometimes cause confusion in communication.
Synonyms
- homograph
- homophone
- polyseme
