What does denotation mean?

Denotation refers to the literal or primary meaning of a word, independent of any emotional or cultural associations that may come with it. It represents the straightforward definition found in a dictionary. In this context, selecting the literal meaning of a spoken word means understanding what the word explicitly signifies, without delving into any connotations or nuances it might have in different contexts or to different audiences.

For instance, if we take the word "snake," the denotation is an elongated, legless reptile. Understanding this does not involve any emotional responses or associations (like fear or danger) that the word might evoke, which would pertain to connotation. This clear distinction is essential for grasping the foundational meaning of language, which is why the answer highlighting the literal meaning is accurate.