Definition of denotativenext
as in indicative
indicating something a string of absences from this course will be seen as denotative of the student's lack of interest in it

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of denotative Semantic bleaching is another linguistic process whereby the denotative content of a word is stripped away. Brandon Tensley, CNN, 10 July 2022 The paragon of such an attempt is something like Jia Tolentino’s Trick Mirror, a work that stands as a denotative record of the social media shift, yet still falls to the same difficulties that characterize other cultural criticism of this type. SPIN, 8 Feb. 2022
Recent Examples of Synonyms for denotative
Adjective
  • Food and drink Though many larger chain hotels often defer to European cuisine to be indicative of high culture, SEA wisely does the opposite.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Mar. 2026
  • One specimen examined by Brochu’s team displayed multiple, partially healed jaw injuries indicative of a brawl with a fellow ambush predator.
    Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 12 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Beyond the visuals, Tan’s actual caption struck a reflective tone that stood out from the usual social media fare.
    Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 13 Mar. 2026
  • There are plenty of star actors who would rather enter the seventh circle of hell than do what Radcliffe is doing here with boundless enthusiasm and reflective of his career-long determination to challenge himself.
    Chris Jones, New York Daily News, 13 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Denotative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/denotative. Accessed 20 Mar. 2026.

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