Vocabulary Spotlight
Denote
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To be a sign of; to indicate or signify something.
“A red traffic light denotes that drivers must stop.”
Pronunciation
[dih-noht]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Signify
Represent
Mean
Express
Antonyms
Conceal
Hide
Confuse
Mislead
Related Words
Mark (verb)
Imply (verb)
Word Origin
“Denote” comes from the Latin “denotare,” meaning “to mark out.” It has been used in English since the 16th century to mean indicating or signifying something specifically.
Word Family
Verb: Denote – To signify or indicate.
Noun: Denotation – The literal meaning of a word.
Adjective: Denotative – Relating to the explicit meaning of something.
Mnemonics
Remember “denote” as “Directly Explains or Names the Object’s True Expression.”
This mnemonic associates “denote” with indicating something explicitly.
Industry-specific Usage
Mathematics
In mathematics, symbols are used to denote specific values or operations, like “+” for addition or “=” for equality.
Linguistics
In linguistics, denote means to represent a literal or primary meaning, different from implied or secondary meanings.
Medicine
In medicine, certain symptoms may denote specific diseases or health conditions, aiding in diagnosis.
In Context
The word “denote” is used when something explicitly indicates or marks a specific meaning or message, often clarifying information or symbolism.