Headword Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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headword
[ˈhɛdˌwɜrd ]
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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'headword'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The term 'headword' originates from the early practices of lexicography and the organization of written texts. The prefix 'head-' denotes the primary position or leading aspect of something, while 'word' refers to any spoken or written unit of language. Combined, it implies the word that leads a dictionary entry or reference. The concept has been in use since at least the late Middle Ages when scholars began to compile vocabulary lists and dictionaries. Its importance grew with the advent of printed texts in the Renaissance, which led to systematic approaches to language documentation. The term has since evolved, especially with the expansion of digital lexicons and online dictionaries, where headwords serve as crucial navigational tools for users searching for definitions and related linguistic information.