Definition & Meaning of "word meaning"

What is "word meaning"?

Word meaning refers to the significance or definition of a word within a particular language. It encompasses the ideas, concepts, and emotions that a word conveys to its users. Word meanings can be categorized into several types, including denotation, which is the literal or primary meaning, and connotation, which includes the associations and emotions that a word evokes beyond its basic definition. Understanding word meaning is essential for effective communication, as it helps convey thoughts accurately and allows speakers and listeners to interpret messages correctly. Additionally, word meanings can change over time due to cultural shifts and language evolution, making the study of semantics important in linguistics.