Definition

A word or phrase that is used as the title for an entry in a dictionary or similar reference book, often highlighted in bold or a different style.

Example

The headword 'apple' appears at the top of the dictionary entry, indicating the definition that follows.

Conversation

Have you ever looked up a headword in the dictionary?

Yeah, I do it all the time when I need to check a word's meaning.

I think it’s interesting how each headword can have so many definitions.

Absolutely! It’s like discovering new meanings every time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Headword → It is formed from "head" (from Old English "heafod", meaning the upper part of the body or the leader) and "word" (from Old English "word", meaning a unit of language). The term "headword" refers to the main word or term under which entries are listed in a dictionary or glossary, essentially the leading word.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'head' as the leader or main part and 'word' as a unit of language. This helps you remember that a headword is the main word listed in a dictionary.

Visually Confused Words