Denotation  The dictionary definition of a word; the literal meaning  School – an institution for educating children  Home – the place where one lives permanently

Connotation  The emotions or set of associations attached to a word that is implied rather than literal  School – boring, fun, prison, challenging  Home – comfort, safety, chaotic, peaceful

Which has the best connotation?  The mean little girl with the red hair had a (pasty, fair, pale) complexion.  The (exotic, strange, unusual) coat the lady was wearing was truly inappropriate for the event we were attending.  After the long cold winter, I could feel the (glare, brightness, brilliance) of the sun shining through once again.

Allegory  A story that has both a literal meaning and symbolic meaning  Characters or objects often embody abstract ideas

Symbolism  The use of symbols to represent abstract ideas in concrete ways  Ex: The United States flag stands for _______.  Freedom  Ex: The color red represents _______.  Hate, anger, death