Homograph Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈhoʊməˌɡræf/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A word or phrase that is written or printed the same as another word or phrase but has a different meaning.

Examples

• The word “bank” can be a noun (financial institution) or a verb (to turn). This is an example of a homograph.
• The phrase “botany” can refer to the branch of botany or the scientific study of plants.
• The word “bow” can refer to the front of a ship or a ribbon tied around a package.

Etymology

The term “homograph” comes from the Greek words “homos” (same) and “graphē” (writing).

Usage Notes

Homographs are often used in language learning to help students understand the complexities of the English language.

Homographs can cause confusion in writing and reading, especially when words with multiple meanings are used.

Cultural References

Homographs are frequently referenced in films, literature, and music.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some common idiomatic expressions that use homographs include “break a leg” (meaning “good luck”) and “broke” (meaning “brought down” or “broke something”).

Related Words or Phrases

Polysemy: A phenomenon where words have multiple related meanings.

Homophone: A word that is pronounced the same as another word but has a different meaning.

Collocations

Collocations are common words or phrases that are often used together.

Frequency of Use

Homographs are a common feature of the English language, with thousands of words having multiple meanings.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of homographs include “homograpgh” and “homogrift”.