Word Sense (Noun)
Meaning
The accepted meaning of a word.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The nuances of the word "bank" can be confusing, as the word sense shifts significantly depending on whether you're talking about a financial institution or the side of a river.
- The word sense of "awful" has changed dramatically over time, evolving from a description of something awe-inspiring to a descriptor of something bad or unpleasant.
- Linguists study the evolution of word sense, tracing how meanings shift and adapt over time.
- Understanding the distinct word sense of homophones like "to", "too", and "two" is crucial for effective communication in writing.
- Historical dictionaries provide insight into the development of word sense, documenting how meanings change and adapt over centuries.