What does connotation refer to?

Connotation refers to the emotional and associative meanings that a word carries beyond its literal definition, which is known as its denotation. While denotation is focused solely on the explicit or dictionary definition of a word, connotation encompasses the feelings, ideas, or associations that the word invokes in addition to its straightforward meaning. This can include cultural implications, personal experiences, and societal contexts that shape how a word is perceived.

For instance, the word "home" denotes a physical structure where one lives, but its connotations could include warmth, safety, family, or comfort. Such layers of meaning significantly influence how language affects listeners and readers, making understanding connotation important for effective communication and literary analysis.