connotation
n.n. the feeling or idea that a word gives you, even if it is not the exact meaning. For example, the word 'home' often makes you feel warm and safe, while 'house' is just a building.
n. the secondary, often emotional or cultural meaning associated with a word or phrase. It differs from the literal or dictionary definition.
The word 'cheap' has a negative connotation for many people.
While both 'small' and 'tiny' describe size, the latter carries a more affectionate or humorous connotation.
The author carefully chose words with positive connotations to ensure the protagonist remained sympathetic to the reader throughout the narrative.
Borrowed from Medieval Latin connotātiō, from connotō (“I mark in addition”), from Latin con- (“together, with”) + noto (“I note”); equivalent to connote + -ation.