denotation
Definitions
The literal or primary meaning of a word, in contrast to the feelings or ideas that the word suggests.
The action or process of indicating or referring to something by means of a word or symbol.
Examples
The word 'home' has the denotation of a place where one lives, but it carries many emotional connotations as well.
When analyzing the poem, the teacher asked the students to look past the literal denotation of the words to find the deeper meaning.