What term refers to the literal meaning of a word?

The term that refers to the literal meaning of a word is denotative meaning. Denotation is the objective, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotional or associative meanings it might carry. For example, the denotative meaning of the word "home" refers specifically to a physical structure where people live.

In contrast, connotative meaning involves the additional feelings or ideas that a word evokes beyond its literal definition. Affective meaning pertains to the emotional responses that a word can trigger, while implicit meaning involves meanings that are implied rather than directly stated. Therefore, denotative meaning is essential for understanding the specific, clear definition of words in communication and comprehension.