What is a homonym?

A homonym is best described as a word that is spelled and pronounced the same as another word but has a different meaning. This definition encompasses both the aspects of spelling and pronunciation being identical while also highlighting the significance of differing meanings, which is what distinguishes homonyms from other types of similar-sounding words.

For example, the word "bat" can refer to a flying mammal or a piece of sports equipment used in baseball. Both meanings share the same spelling and pronunciation, which is a key characteristic of homonyms. Understanding this helps clarify the nuances of language and how words can function in different contexts, enriching both writing and speaking.

The other options focus on different aspects of word relationships. While they correctly point towards concepts of words with similar sounds or meanings, they do not encompass the full definition of homonyms as effectively as indicating both the sameness in spelling and pronunciation combined with different meanings does. This fundamental understanding is essential for grasping the complexity of language usage.