head-word

A dictionary entry begins with a head-word in bold type.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Entry word in a dictionary: A "head-word" is the main word or phrase that begins a separate entry in a dictionary, glossary, or encyclopedia. It is typically set in bold type and is the term being defined.
   • Key term in a reference work: In reference works, the "head-word" serves as the title or label for the entire entry, distinguishing it from related terms or subentries.

Usage Examples

• (The main word of an entry.)
• (The entry's primary term.)
• (The word that heads the entry.)

Advanced Usage

• "head-word in a thesaurus": In a thesaurus, the "head-word" is the main concept under which synonyms and antonyms are grouped.

  • The head-word "happy" is followed by synonyms like cheerful, joyful, and content. (The central term for the synonym group.)

• "head-word in a glossary": In a glossary, the "head-word" is the technical term being explained.

  • The glossary's head-word "photosynthesis" is defined simply for students. (The term at the start of the glossary entry.)

Variants and Related Words

• Headword (n): a variant spelling of "head-word," used interchangeably in modern dictionaries.

  • The headword "apple" appears on page 45 of the dictionary. (The main entry word.)

• Entry word (n): a synonym for "head-word," referring to the word that begins a dictionary entry.

  • Each entry word is followed by its pronunciation and definition. (The word that opens the entry.)

Synonyms

• Entry term: the word or phrase that introduces a dictionary or glossary entry.
• Lemma: in lexicography, the canonical form of a word (e.g., the infinitive of a verb) that serves as the head-word.
• Guide word: a word printed at the top of a dictionary page to indicate the first or last entry on that page (though this is a related but distinct concept).

Related Idioms

• "Head-word of a list": the primary item or topic that begins a list or catalog.

  • The head-word of the shopping list is "milk," the most important item. (The first and most prominent item.)

• "Head-word in a debate": the central term or concept around which a discussion revolves.

  • The head-word "freedom" was the focus of the entire debate. (The key term under discussion.)