ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-NAV-G03-022 · ATLAS 259

Homography

Homography is identity of written form across distinct lexical items or readings.

Part of the subject path Philosophy of Language, Thought and Knowledge

Why is this entry in the Atlas?

A · Analytical concept R1 · Distinct contribution to understanding

Homography adds identical spelling as a source of different readings independently of pronunciation. Shared written form differs from lexical identity and from homophony.

Colours and admission grounds

The rectangular label identifies the entry function: F – linguistic figure or procedure; A – analytical concept; G – foundational concept; E – selected concrete case. The rounded badge indicates the admission ground: R1 – distinctive contribution; R2 – necessary foundation; R3 – justified illustrative case. This editorial rationale explains the current selection rather than claiming an undocumented original selection history.

Explanation

Homography is identity of spelling between distinct lexical items. Whether those items also share a pronunciation is a separate question. The concept isolates written form without conflating sound, meaning and historical origin. Shared spelling alone, however, does not establish that two words are involved rather than different senses of one word. That lexical decision needs an independent argument. The Atlas therefore treats homography as a formal relation within a specified language and writing convention, not an automatic explanation of every ambiguity.

Movement of thought

1. Compare spellings under the same convention. 2. Identify the meanings. 3. Justify lexical unity or separation. 4. Check pronunciation independently. 5. Name the relation with those limits stated.

Scientific use case

Lexicography and speech synthesis must keep spelling, pronunciation and lexical interpretation distinct.

Example

English lead meaning “to guide” and lead as a metal name share their spelling but differ in pronunciation.

Counterexample

Two interpretations of a metaphorical use do not by themselves establish two homographic lexemes.

Distinction

Distinguish homography from homophony, polysemy and mere visual resemblance.

Effect on thought and perception

The relation shows how writing can collapse differences.

Resonance

One visible form can open more than one path through sound or meaning.

Provenance

Parallel source review reconciled 2026-10-07; human specialist review not claimed.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Homography“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-NAV-G03-022. ATLAS 259, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-NAV-G03-022

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-NAV-G03-022

The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. Editorial reading state: 2026-10-15. Include your access date for precise references.