Which term signifies the basic dictionary definition of a word?

The term that signifies the basic dictionary definition of a word is denotative meaning. This concept refers to the explicit or literal meaning of a word as it's defined in a dictionary, without any additional nuances, associations, or interpretations that may arise from context or personal experience. Understanding denotative meaning is crucial for clear communication, as it helps ensure that everyone involved in a conversation understands the word in its most common and straightforward sense.

Other terms like contextual meaning, connotative meaning, and emotional meaning introduce layers of complexity. Contextual meaning refers to how a word might change based on the circumstances in which it is used, while connotative meaning encompasses the emotional and associative implications that a word carries beyond its literal definition. Emotional meaning tends to focus on the feelings or sentiments a word may evoke, which can vary significantly among individuals. Each of these other meanings plays a role in language, but they do not represent the straightforward, dictionary definition that denotative meaning provides.