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Denotat

denotation, literal referent of a word

noun de-no-TAHT Rare
Communication Language

Origin: from Latin denotare (to mark)

Usage Note

Denotat is the concrete object or concept a word literally refers to, as opposed to its Konnotat (connotation). Rose as a flower is the Denotat; associations of love or beauty are Konnotationen.

Examples

"Das Denotat von 'Schlange' ist das Reptil; Gefahr ist dagegen eine Konnotation."

Natural Translation

The denotation of 'Schlange' is the reptile; danger is a connotation.

Literal Translation

The denotation of 'snake' is the reptile; danger is on the other hand a connotation.

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