Denotation
/ˌdiː.nəˈteɪ.ʃən/noun
The literal or primary meaning of a word, as opposed to the feelings or ideas that the word suggests.
Did you know?The word 'denotation' stems from Latin roots meaning 'to mark out', hinting at the power of language to shape reality.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
denotatio
“marking out, indicating”
Late Middle Ages
Old French
denotation
“the act of indicating or referring to something”
16th Century
English
denotation
“the act of denoting; the specific meaning of a term”
Modern English
English
denotation
“the primary, literal meaning of a word, distinct from its associated meanings”