homographs

Definition:

Words that have the same spelling but differ in origin, meaning, and sometimes pronunciation, such as the verb bear (to carry or endure) and the noun bear (the animal with a shaggy coat). Adjective: homographic.

Some homographs are also heteronyms: words with the same spelling but different pronunciations and meanings, such as the verb tear (to pull apart or rip) and the noun tear (a drop of salty liquid secreted by the eye).

See also: 200 Homonyms, Homophones, and Homographs

Etymology:

From the Latin, "to write the same"

Examples and Observations:

• The adjective fair (just, or pleasing in appearance) and the noun fair (an exhibition or event). The adjective is derived from the Old English word for "lovely, pleasant"; the noun comes from the Latin word for "holiday."



• The noun sewer (a conduit for water or sewage) and the noun sewer (one who sews). The first noun (pronounced SOO-er) is derived from Latin, "related to water"; the second (pronounced SO-er) from the Sanskrit, "thread, string."



• "Etymology is not an intuitive basis for homograph distinction for the contemporary user; but it is a more certain basis for the lexicographer than its more slippery alternative, perceived difference in meaning."
  (Howard Jackson and Etienne Zé Amvela, Words, Meaning and Vocabulary: An Introduction to Modern English Lexicology, Continuum International Publishing Group, 2000)



• Homographic Riddles:
  
  
  • Why is a polka like beer?
    Because there are so many hops in it.
  
  
  
  • What's a frank frank?
    A hot dog who gives his honest opinion.
  
  
  
  • How do pigs write?
    With a pigpen.
  
  
  
  • Why was the picture sent to jail?
    Because it was framed.
  
  
  
  • Why would a pelican make a good lawyer?
    Because he knows how to stretch his bill.

Pronunciation: HOM-uh-graf