noun

homonym

HOM-ə-nim

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Homonym (noun) means a word that is spelled or pronounced the same as another word, though not necessarily both. Example: “Bat meaning a flying mammal and bat meaning sports equipment are homonyms.”

noun

A word that is spelled or pronounced the same as another word, though not necessarily both.

"Bat meaning a flying mammal and bat meaning sports equipment are homonyms."

"The teacher asked pupils to list a few common homonyms."

"Because they are homonyms, the two words are easy to confuse in a dictionary."

technical In semantics, a word that is both spelled and pronounced the same as another, unrelated word.

"Fluke, meaning a flatworm and fluke, meaning a stroke of luck, are true homonyms."

"Linguists distinguish strict homonyms from words that merely look or sound alike."

"The dictionary entry noted that the two senses were true homonyms rather than related meanings."

How to use homonym

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA homonym is a word that looks or sounds just like another word but means something different.

When to use it

The strict semantics sense is more technical than the everyday, looser use of the word.

Memory tip

If two words only sound alike, check whether homophone is the more accurate term than homonym.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

homograph → homophone →

Common pairings

a pair of homonyms common homonyms true homonyms list of homonyms

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “homonym” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Bat meaning a flying mammal and bat meaning sports equipment are _____.

Etymology

Homonym comes from Latin homonymum, itself taken from Ancient Greek homonymon, a word built from roots meaning same and name.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for homonym

antonym acronym pseudonym

See all rhymes for homonym →

Frequently asked questions

What is a homonym?

It is a word that shares its spelling or pronunciation, or both, with another word that has a different meaning.

What is the difference between a homonym, a homograph and a homophone?

A homograph shares spelling only, a homophone shares sound only, and a true homonym in the strict sense shares both.

Where does the word homonym come from?

It traces back through Latin homonymum to Ancient Greek homonymon, formed from elements meaning same and name.

What is the meaning of homonym?

"homonym" (noun) means a word that is spelled or pronounced the same as another word, though not necessarily both.