What meaning is usually the dictionary for a word?

The dictionary meaning of a word is usually its denotation, which is the literal or primary meaning of the word. It's the objective, factual definition that's generally agreed upon by language experts.

Here's a breakdown of how dictionary definitions work:

* Core meaning: This is the essential, most basic definition of the word.

* Synonyms: Words with similar meanings are often listed to help you understand the word in different contexts.

* Examples: Sentences or phrases using the word are provided to show how it's used in real language.

* Etymology: The origin of the word, tracing its history and development.

* Parts of speech: Indicating whether the word is a noun, verb, adjective, etc.

* Different meanings: If a word has multiple meanings, they will be listed with clear distinctions.

It's important to remember that dictionaries don't always capture the full range of a word's meaning. Words can have connotations (emotional or suggestive meanings) that go beyond the dictionary definition. They also have contextual meanings that depend on how they're used in specific situations.

Therefore, while the dictionary provides a valuable foundation for understanding a word, it's essential to consider its wider meanings and implications based on the context.