Homonym - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A homonym is a word that sounds or is spelled the same as another but has a different meaning, such as 'bat' (animal) and 'bat' (sports equipment). It can also refer to words that are only pronounced alike, like 'flower' and 'flour'.
Definition:
A word pronounced or spelled like another but with a different meaning.
Synonyms:
homophone, homograph, heteronym
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
antonym, synonym
Common Collocations:
homonym confusion, homonym pairs, common homonyms
Derivatives:
homonymous, homonymy
Usage Tips:
Ensure context clarifies meaning when using homonyms to avoid ambiguity in speech or writing.
Common Phrases:
"bank" (river vs financial), "bat" (animal vs sports equipment), "lead" (metal vs guide)
Etymology:
From Greek "homōnymos," meaning "having the same name."
Examples:
- 1. The words "flower" and "flour" are homonyms in English pronunciation.
- 2. "Bear" can be a homonym for both the animal and the verb meaning to carry.
- 3. She confused the homonyms "right" and "write" in her essay.
- 4. Homonyms like "tear" (rip) and "tear" (drop) often cause misunderstandings.