connotation

noun

Definition of connotationnext
as in implication
an idea or quality that is suggested by a word or thing a word with positive connotations The word "childlike" has connotations of innocence.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of connotation The way words are perceived can change too, with connotations morphing from negative to positive. — Kirk McClure, Fortune, 14 July 2026 The Benefits of Downsizing Your Home and Belongings Downsizing doesn’t have to carry a negative connotation. — Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 7 July 2026 Just keep in mind that upside-down pineapples have certain connotations (IYKYK). — Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 5 July 2026 Richmond Richmond may not have the immediate colonial connotations of some of the other cities in Virginia, but one of the most significant speeches of the Revolutionary era happened right in downtown Richmond. — Heather Bien, Southern Living, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for connotation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for connotation
  1. implication
  2. sense
  3. meaning
  4. hint
  5. indication
  6. definition
  7. suggestion
  8. message
Noun
  • The International Atomic Energy Agency launched its ATLAS initiative on August 26 to encourage dialogue and improve technical understanding of innovative nuclear applications and their safety and regulatory implications.
    — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026
  • The genius of work divided loses none of its luster when the Chinese are participating in the work, not to mention the peaceful implications of market goods easily crossing borders.
    — John Tamny, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of implication
Noun
  • In that sense, hitting one in his second career at-bat, which was sandwiched by two strikeouts, was fitting.
    — Spencer Nusbaum, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Combining unexpected items can make a lot of sense and save precious space in your backpack.
    — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of sense
Noun
  • When a human accepts, rejects or overrides the agent, the organization can reconstruct why—not from a comment field that made sense to the person who wrote it, but from a structured record that holds its meaning after they're gone.
    — Krupesh Bhat, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Below, learn more about Princess Margaret’s unique engagement ring, her relationship with Antony, and the personal meaning behind her granddaughter’s choice to wear the heirloom.
    — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of meaning
Noun
  • The cuisine was also noteworthy, a generous choice of cocktails, wines, and cuisine with hints of contemporary English inspiration, while avoiding being British stodgy.
    — Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Warsh is unlikely to reveal his approach before the task forces report but at Jackson Hole the whole world will be looking for hints regarding his plans to reshape the Fed.
    — Paul Wachtel, The Conversation, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of hint
Noun
  • But if this week is any indication, Wall Street may finally be coming back around to Benioff's side.
    — Jordan Novet, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
  • If the season-two premiere is any indication, the series is primed to capitalize on that potential this year.
    — Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of indication
Noun
  • Its main instrument, known as the Wide Field Instrument (WFI), will take extremely wide images of the universe, capturing ultra-high definition views across broad swaths of the sky.
    — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Blakespear said the definition was broad enough to encompass a wide range of heavy industrial uses, including chemical, plastics and pesticide manufacturing and strip mining.
    — Naomi Taxay, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of definition
Noun
  • But the suggestion that Tech N9ne was someone audiences needed to remember quickly drew pushback.
    — J.M. Banks, Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Following the Michigan recommendation was a suggestion to check out the beaches in the state of Delaware.
    — Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of suggestion
Noun
  • They are constantly and credibly threatened, their locations and details given out in menacing anonymous messages.
    — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 4 Sep. 2026
  • Brad Pitt sent a message to George Clooney as the Michael Clayton star was honored Wednesday at the Venice International Film Festival.
    — Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of message

Browse Nearby Words

connoisseurs
connotation
connotations
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Cite this Entry

“Connotation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/connotation. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on connotation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about connotation

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