What does the term "connotation" refer to in language?

The term "connotation" refers to the emotional and associative meaning of a word, beyond its literal dictionary definition. It encompasses the feelings, ideas, or images that a word invokes in addition to its explicit meaning. For example, the word "home" typically suggests warmth, safety, and comfort, while "house" simply denotes a physical structure. This distinction is important in language as it helps convey subtleties in tone and context, allowing writers and speakers to express complex ideas and emotions. Understanding connotation is crucial in interpreting literature, persuasive writing, and everyday communication, as it can significantly affect how a message is received.