hypernym

Definition

A superordinate word or phrase; a term whose referents form a set which includes as a subset the referents of a subordinate term—as, for example, insect (being a hypernym) for ant.

Etymology

From hyper- (“over”) + -nym (“name”). From Ancient Greek roots; compare Latinate “superordinate term”.

Example Sentences

• "“Musical instrument” is a hypernym of “guitar” because a guitar is a musical instrument: a guitar belongs to a class or type of musical instruments."
• "Hypernyms of “dog” and “cat” include “mammal”, “pet”, “carnivore”, and “quadruped”."

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