Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun
- a word spelled the same as another but having a different sound and meaning, as lead (to conduct) and lead (a metal).
noun
- one of two or more words pronounced differently but spelt alikethe two English words spelt “bow” are heteronyms Compare homograph
“word having the same spelling as another but with a different sound and meaning,” 1880s, also “a thing’s name in one language that is an exact translation of its name in another;” from hetero- + -onym “name” (see name). Related: Heteronymic; heteronymous.