Which term describes words spelled the same but having different meanings?

The term that describes words spelled the same but having different meanings is homographs. Homographs are an interesting aspect of the English language, where the same spelling can produce different meanings depending on context and pronunciation. For example, the word "lead" can refer to a type of metal or the act of guiding someone.

Understanding homographs is important for effective reading instruction, as recognizing these words helps learners appreciate the nuances of language and enhance their comprehension skills. This awareness can prevent misunderstandings and encourage readers to pay closer attention to context clues that determine meaning.

The other terms provided are related to word meanings but refer to different concepts. Synonyms are words with similar meanings, antonyms are words with opposite meanings, and contronyms are words that can be their own antonyms depending on how they are used. This distinction emphasizes the unique nature of homographs in illustrating how identical spelling can convey a range of meanings.