Definition

A word that is spelled the same as another word but has a different meaning and is pronounced differently.

Example

The word 'lead' can be a heteronym; it can mean to guide someone or refer to a type of metal.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a heteronym?

No, what’s that?

It's a word that’s spelled the same but has different meanings and pronunciations, like 'lead' the metal and 'lead' a team.

Oh, that’s interesting! I didn't know words could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heteronym → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "onym" (from Greek "onoma", meaning name). The word refers to names that are spelled the same but have different meanings, thus highlighting their difference.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') names ('onym') that look alike but mean something else. This helps you remember that a heteronym is a word that has the same spelling as another but a different meaning.

Visually Confused Words