Denotation

Denotation refers to the literal or primary meaning of a word, distinct from the feelings or ideas that the word suggests (connotation). It's the dictionary definition, the objective meaning devoid of emotional coloring or implied associations. A word's denotation is its core meaning, the specific thing, concept, or action it represents, agreed upon by language users and understood without requiring further contextual clues beyond the language itself.

Denotation meaning with examples

• The word 'dog' has the denotation of a domesticated canine animal. This is the universally accepted, factual meaning. Its denotation remains constant regardless of personal feelings about dogs or their cultural significance. It simply identifies a four-legged mammal often kept as a pet.
• When analyzing a poem, understanding the denotation of each word is crucial before exploring its connotations. For instance, 'rose' denotes a type of flower; analyzing its fragrance or symbolic value requires you to first understand it is describing a plant.
• In a legal contract, the denotation of each term is extremely important. 'Vehicle' might denote a car, truck, or bus; the contract's precise denotation limits the scope to avoid ambiguity or legal loopholes created by the terms' connotation.
• A scientific paper focuses solely on denotative language. Terms like 'atom' and 'molecule' have very specific denotations relating to physics and chemistry; feelings toward chemistry have no effect on these terms’ denotation.
• A computer program relies on the denotation of keywords. When the denotation of a word is 'if,' then it will initiate a conditional branch in the process. The program interprets the word 'if' based on its literal definition.