Headword: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
headword
[หhษdหwษrd ]
Definition
lexical item
A headword is the main word or phrase in a dictionary entry that serves as a reference point for its definition, usage, and related information. It is typically printed in bold or highlighted to indicate that it is the subject of the entry. In various contexts, such as linguistics and lexicography, headwords can also denote key terms in texts, glossaries, and academic papers. They play a crucial role in indexing and organizing information, allowing users to efficiently find definitions and details.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The headword 'apple' has several definitions related to fruit.
- In the dictionary, each entry begins with a headword.
- Look up the headword to find its correct pronunciation.
- The headword is essential for understanding the context of the definition.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'headword' originated in the late 19th century from the combination of 'head', meaning the top or principal, and 'word'.
- In linguistics, headwords serve as anchors for multiple related meanings or forms of a word, simplifying navigation within texts.
Education
- Headwords help learners quickly find the information they need, making dictionaries user-friendly tools.
- In language instruction, students are encouraged to recognize headwords, as this aids in vocabulary building and effective learning.
Linguistics
- In a dictionary or glossary, a headword may not always be a single word; it can also be a phrase or idiom.
- They are often displayed in a prominent font to distinguish them from definitions, examples, or related forms.
Digital Technology
- Online dictionaries and language apps often use headwords to organize vast amounts of data efficiently, making searches faster.
- Advanced algorithms in digital dictionaries use headword features to suggest synonyms, antonyms, or related words.
Pop Culture
- Many language games and word puzzles use headwords as the key to unlocking answers or clues.
- Show hosts and quiz masters often tailor questions around popular headwords, making vocabulary a fun aspect of competitive entertainment.
Translations
Translations of the word "headword" in other languages:
๐ต๐น cabeรงa
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฎเฅเค
๐ฉ๐ช Kopf
๐ฎ๐ฉ kepala
๐บ๐ฆ ะณะพะปะพะฒะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ gลowa
๐ฏ๐ต ่ฆๅบใ
๐ซ๐ท tรชte
๐ช๐ธ cabeza
๐น๐ท baล
๐ฐ๐ท ๋จธ๋ฆฌ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฑุฃุณ
๐จ๐ฟ hlava
๐ธ๐ฐ hlava
๐จ๐ณ ๅคด
๐ธ๐ฎ glava
๐ฎ๐ธ hรถfuรฐ
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฑะฐั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ baล
๐ฒ๐ฝ cabeza