What is connotation in relation to words?

Connotation refers to the range of additional meanings, emotions, and associations that a word suggests beyond its literal definition, which is often referred to as its denotation. When considering a word, its connotation can evoke feelings and carry implications that influence how it is perceived in context. For example, the word "home" connotes warmth, safety, and comfort, whereas its denotation may simply refer to a place where one lives.

Understanding connotation is crucial in language and writing because it affects how communication is interpreted. Writers and speakers often choose words not just for their definitions but for the feelings and associations they invoke in the audience. This broader understanding shapes effective communication and helps convey subtleties that might not be captured through denotative meanings alone.