# connotation

/ˌkɑnəˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /kɒnəʊtˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/connotation
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

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.

For teachers: the secondary, often emotional or cultural meaning associated with a word or phrase. It differs from the literal or dictionary definition.

## Examples

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.