Meaning

A name (or term) consisting of multiple words..

Definitions by Sense

1. A name (or term) consisting of multiple words.
2. One of multiple names for the same thing.
3. A single word or name with multiple distinct (although possibly related) meanings.
4. A word that is spelled the same as another, but which has a different pronunciation and meaning; homograph.

Example Sentences

They agree upon one point, viz., the advantages, other things being equal, of mononyms (single word terms) over polynyms (terms consisting of two or more words).

Dyaus, the Bright- Shining-One-in-the-Heavens, or Maruna, the All-Surrounding, All- Enduring-One ; or Agni, the Everywhere-Present-One, became the polynyms for God.

The way to avoid term disputes is not to impose mononymy but, rather, to insist that the syn-tags for a given polynym (multinym) be clearly identified.

For once the former are known, the remaining two will be known too, since they are their opposites, and opposites are known by the same knowledge. In knowing what is a homonym, one will also know its opposite, I mean a polynym.

Thus, Afham's second role as a Kierkegaardian polynym is to render his reader visible.

A few dictionaries have treated all the meanings sub-meanings of a polynym under one entry.

You have to listen for homonyms (sea/see/C, tea/T, et cetera), look for polynyms (letter/letter, degree/degree), and be on the alert for the slightest multiplicity of meaning.

With respect to polynyms, the selection of the senses poses certain problems. In a general dictionary, the entry should be as comprehensive as possible, but this practice is not followed in those cited.

Word Forms

• polynyms

Synonyms for polynym

Antonyms for polynym

Related Words

When Should You Use Polynym?

Use polynym when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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