What do we call words that share the same spelling but have different meanings?

Words that share the same spelling but have different meanings are called homographs. This term specifically refers to words that are written the same way (i.e., they have identical spelling) but may have different meanings and sometimes different pronunciations as well. For instance, the word "lead" can refer to a type of metal, or it can mean to guide someone.

Homographs are essential in understanding the nuances of language, especially in a multi-sensory structured language education context, as they highlight the importance of context in determining meaning. Recognizing homographs is crucial for improving reading comprehension and vocabulary development.

In contrast, homonyms generally refer to words that sound alike or are spelled alike but have different meanings, adding a layer of confusion. Homophones are specifically words that sound the same regardless of their spelling or meaning. Synonyms, on the other hand, are words that have similar meanings but differ in spelling. Understanding these distinctions enhances language proficiency and clarity in communication.