Polysemous (adjective)

  1. Having multiple meanings or interpretations.
  2. Refers to a word or expression that can have different interpretations based on the context it is used in.

Origin:

Derived from the greek words 'poly' meaning 'many' and 'semeion' meaning 'sign'.

Examples:

  1. The word 'bank' is polysemous as it can refer to a financial institution or the side of a river.
  2. The phrase 'I'll take it' could be polysemous and could mean 'I'll take it' as in I'll purchase the item, or 'I'll take it' as in I'll agree to do it.
  3. The word 'play' is polysemous, with multiple meanings including a theatrical performance, engaging in a game or sport, or just having fun.
  4. Many idioms are polysemous, as they can have different meanings based on the context they are used in.
  5. Polysemous words can sometimes lead to misunderstandings in communication, as the listener may interpret the meaning differently.
Some random words: horseshit, brie, tartan