Definition

A word or phrase that is more specific than a general term, representing a particular instance or category within a broader category.

Example

The word 'rose' is a hyponym of 'flower'.

Conversation

I just learned about the concept of a hyponym in class yesterday.

Oh really? What's a hyponym?

It's a word that is more specific than a general term, like 'rose' is a hyponym of 'flower'.

That makes sense! Language can be so interesting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hyponym → It is formed from "hypo-" (from Greek "hypo", meaning under or below) and "onym" (from Greek "onuma", meaning name). A hyponym is a word that represents a specific instance of a broader category, thus being a name that is 'under' another name.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hypo-' meaning 'under' and 'onym' meaning 'name' — a hyponym is a name that falls under a broader category.

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