1. a word that has the same spelling and pronunciation as another word but a different meaning
Usage: common in word games and language study
2. a word that sounds the same as another word but has a different spelling and meaning
Usage: sometimes used more broadly to include homophones

Examples

• The word 'bank' is a homonym because it can mean a financial institution or the side of a river.
• In English, 'lead' and 'lead' are homonyms—one is a metal, the other means to guide.
• The homonym 'bat' refers both to the flying animal and the sports equipment.
• Students often confuse homonyms with homophones, which sound alike but are spelled differently.
• The word 'tear' is a homonym: it can mean to rip something or a drop of liquid from the eye.
• Homonyms can make English challenging for language learners.