Final answer:
The connotation of a word refers to its implied or associated meanings that go beyond the dictionary definition, commonly shaped by cultural and personal experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
A word's connotation refers to the non-literal, implied meanings or associations that people commonly attach to that word. These meanings are often based on cultural and personal experiences.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is (1) An idea associated with the word. Unlike denotation, which is the direct, dictionary definition of a word, connotation encompasses the emotional and cultural resonance behind a word.
For example, although 'home' denotatively means 'a place where one lives,' its connotative meanings can include feelings of security, warmth, and belonging.
Connotations can be positive, neutral, or negative based on the context in which the word is used. They influence how a term is understood in everyday language and can change over time with cultural shifts and personal experiences. Poets and authors often leverage connotations to add depth and emotion to their writing, influencing the tone and mood of their work.