denote

/dɪˈnəʊt/verb

To be a sign of something; to show or mark it.

Example sentences

“A red label denotes items that are on sale.”
“On this map, blue dots denote campsites with fresh drinking water.”

Compare 'connote': a word denotes its literal meaning but connotes the feelings attached to it. Writers on language keep these two carefully apart.

Featured as word of the day on August 11, 2026.

Synonyms for denote

indicate
signify
mark

Often confused with denote

denote vs connote

On the Academic Word List. Find it in: Academic vocabulary, Advanced English words.

Related words

demureQuiet, modest, and a little shy in manner.demiseThe death of a person, or the point at which something comes to an end or collapses.demeanorThe outward manner typical of a person, shown through things like body language and facial expressions.delineateTo draw, trace, or mark out the outline or boundaries of something.depleteTo use up or greatly reduce the supply of something, such as money, energy, or resources.deplorableSo bad or shameful that it deserves strong disapproval.