denotative

adjective

ˈdē-nō-ˌtā-tiv How to pronounce denotative (audio)
Definition of denotativenext
as in indicative
indicating something a string of absences from this course will be seen as denotative of the student's lack of interest in it

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of denotative Semantic bleaching is another linguistic process whereby the denotative content of a word is stripped away. — Brandon Tensley, CNN, 10 July 2022 The paragon of such an attempt is something like Jia Tolentino’s Trick Mirror, a work that stands as a denotative record of the social media shift, yet still falls to the same difficulties that characterize other cultural criticism of this type. — SPIN, 8 Feb. 2022
Recent Examples of Synonyms for denotative
  1. indicative
  2. reflective
Adjective
  • The world building is easier to understand and less dense than Crescent City, and the tone is also the most indicative of SJM’s writing on the whole; Throne of Glass started as a YA series, then becomes more adult over time.
    — Anna Moeslein, Glamour, 24 Oct. 2026
  • The way this game played out was indicative of what Mahomes’ career has become.
    — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of indicative
Adjective
  • Community members' opposition to data center development in Memphis is reflective of the broader attitude across America in recent months.
    — Lauren Fichten, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026
  • José Antonio Bañuelos-Díaz, 42, a Mexican national and West Adams resident, appeared in court wearing a reflective vest with the name of a landscaping company, blue jeans and boots with the American flag on them.
    — Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026
Definition of reflective

Browse Nearby Words

denotations
denotative
denote
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Cite this Entry

“Denotative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/denotative. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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