Connotative

/ˈkɑnətətɪv/ adjective

Definition

Expressing or containing an implied or suggested meaning in addition to the literal meaning; carrying emotional associations.

Etymology

Formed from 'connote' (to suggest) plus the suffix '-ative' (tending to; having the quality of), following the pattern of words like 'creative' and 'talkative' that describe the quality of tending toward something.

Kelly Says

Colors are perfect examples: 'red' denotes a wavelength of light, but connotatively it means passion, danger, or luck depending on your culture—this is why traffic lights, stop signs, and wedding décor vary so wildly around the world!

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