What term describes words that have the same spelling but different meanings?

What term describes words that have the same spelling but different meanings?

• A. Homograph
• B. Synonym
• C. Antonym
• D. Homophone

Answer: (A)

Words that have the same spelling but carry different meanings are called homographs. The spelling is identical, but the sense changes with context, and sometimes the pronunciation changes too—like lead (to guide) versus lead (the metal), which are spelled the same but pronounced differently. This idea is what defines a homograph: same written form, different meanings. It’s helpful to contrast it with homophones, which sound the same but can be spelled differently (such as night and knight), and with synonyms or antonyms, which relate to meaning in other ways.

Words that have the same spelling but carry different meanings are called homographs. The spelling is identical, but the sense changes with context, and sometimes the pronunciation changes too—like lead (to guide) versus lead (the metal), which are spelled the same but pronounced differently. This idea is what defines a homograph: same written form, different meanings. It’s helpful to contrast it with homophones, which sound the same but can be spelled differently (such as night and knight), and with synonyms or antonyms, which relate to meaning in other ways.