What is a homograph?

A homograph is defined as a word that shares the same spelling as another word but has a different meaning. This characteristic is crucial since it highlights how context can significantly alter the interpretation of a word. For instance, the word "lead" can mean to guide someone or can refer to a type of metal, depending on its use in a sentence.

Understanding homographs is essential for effective reading and comprehension, as it underscores the importance of context clues in determining the meaning of words that appear identical but convey distinct ideas. This awareness helps learners develop deeper literacy skills.