Homonyms, Homographs and Homophones

Front

What is a homonym?

Back

A homonym is a word that sounds the same as another word but has a different meaning, such as 'bat' (the animal) and 'bat' (the sports equipment).

Front

What is a homograph?

Back

A homograph is a word that is spelled the same as another word but has a different meaning and may have a different pronunciation, such as 'lead' (to guide) and 'lead' (a type of metal).

Front

What is a homophone?

Back

A homophone is a word that sounds the same as another word but has a different meaning and may have a different spelling, such as 'flour' (used in baking) and 'flower' (a blooming plant).

Front

Give an example of a homonym.

Back

'Bark' can mean the sound a dog makes or the outer covering of a tree.

Front

Give an example of a homograph.

Back

'Tear' can mean to rip something or a drop of liquid from the eye.

Front

Give an example of a homophone.

Back

'Pair' (a set of two) and 'pear' (a type of fruit) are homophones.

Front

What does 'heel' mean?

Back

'Heel' refers to the back part of the foot.

Front

What does 'heal' mean?

Back

'Heal' means to make or become healthy again.

Front

What does 'weather' refer to?

Back

'Weather' refers to the state of the atmosphere at a place and time, including temperature, precipitation, and wind.

Front

What does 'whether' mean?

Back

'Whether' is a conjunction used to introduce alternatives, such as in 'whether it rains or not.'