Homonyms
Learning Objectives
In this lesson, you will focus on the following objective:
Vocabulary: Understanding homonyms.
Vocabulary: Understanding homonyms.
Homonyms
Homonyms are different words that sound alike and may be spelled alike. Homonyms are distinct from multiple-meaning words, which are single words with more than one meaning.
In sentences 1–2 below, bear and bear are homonyms, because they are different words:
1. I can’t bear it.
2. The bear growled.
In sentences 4–5, bear is one word with two different meanings:
4. I can’t bear it.
5. I’m going to bear a child.
In sentences 1–2 below, bear and bear are homonyms, because they are different words:
1. I can’t bear it.
2. The bear growled.
In sentences 4–5, bear is one word with two different meanings:
4. I can’t bear it.
5. I’m going to bear a child.
Literature Connection
Homonyms are different words that sound alike but have different meanings and sometimes different spellings. For example, hail can be either of two completely different words.
Homonyms are different words that sound alike but have different meanings and sometimes different spellings. For example, hail can be either of two completely different words.
" Often the white travelers would hail me, but more often I hailed them, and asked, ' don't you want me to go a piece of the way with you?'"
—Zora Neale Hurston , from Dust Tracks on a Road
Here hail means "to greet" Hail as a noun means "pellets of ice."
The English language is full of homonyms. Here is a sample list.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
bear bear |
an animal to endure |
The brown bear walked right into our campsite. The entire team must bear the burden of defeat. |
bank bank |
a mound or border a place to keep money |
We stood on the river’s bank and watched the current. My bank informed me my account was overdrawn. |
| break brake |
to crack, split, or smash to stop a movement |
Enslaved people endeavored to break their bonds. The negligent driver failed to brake for the pedestrian. |
hear here |
to listen in this place |
In the village, we could hear the pealing church bells. I am resolved to remain here until I am evicted. |
piece peace |
a part of something tranquility | I completed the last piece of the puzzle. In the midst of war, people long for peace. |
holy wholly holey |
sacred completely full of holes |
The pilgrims consider the shrine to be holy. I am not wholly convinced of your arguments. My holey socks are in need of repair. |
Homonyms Quiz
Select the correct homonym to fit each sentence. Consult a dictionary if you need help.