Answers To The Question: What Is Denotation?
DENOTATION – In this article, we will learn more about this literary device, its definition, functions, and importance in writing.
This literary device is defined as the literal or dictionary meaning of a word that is in contrast to its connotative or synonymous meanings.
An example of this is when you look into the dictionary and search for the meaning of the word “dove”. There, you would find it described as a type of pigeon that could be wild or domesticated having a heavy body and short legs.
However, in literature and writing, you often find it to be a symbol of peace and prosperity or freedom. According to an article from Literary Devices, here are some examples of Denotation:
- She recognized the lovely aroma of her mother’s cooking. (Smell)
- Vegetables are an inexpensive (Cheap)
- Hanna’s interest in interior decoration has turned into her leisure pursuit. (Hobby)
- Aunt Jolly lives in a hut deep down in the forest. (Cabin)
- I stopped for brunch at a diner situated in the bay area. (Café)
- His parents are conservationists. (Environmentalists)
- My old computer has died. (Venerable)
- In a stealthy and quiet way, Bob entered into his lawyer’s chambers. (Cautious)
- The son was somewhat intimidated by father’s assertive (Confident)
- Ben is an adventurous (Courageous)
- Emily moved around the shore and stopped to take rest. (Relax)
- The man is flocking together young sheep. (Lambs)
- Harry has a pet and keeps it in a cage. (tamed animal)
- Sara forgot her sweater at home and is cold during her walk. (Chilly)
- John returns to his home (Family)
You could also find Denotation in Literature. Take these set of lines from Mending Wall by Robert Frost for example;
And on a day we meet to walk the line
Mending Wall (By Robert Frost)
And set the wall between us once again.
We keep the wall between us as we go.
To each the boulders that have fallen to each.
The wall that is being talked about suggests a physical boundary, which is denotative. However, it can also imply the idea of a barrier in the emotional sense.
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