"Connotation" vs. "Definition"

There seems to be some ambiguity between the connotation and definition of a word / word group / phrase.

The dictionary entry seems to be that a definition is more of a primary description of a word whereas connotation seems to be more of an alternative meaning or implication.

Further, despite the dictionary entry, I feel like I hear them used synonymously both on this site and in "real life."

So, long question short, what constitutes a definition and what constitutes a connotation?

Solution 1:

The dichotomy isn't between connotation and definition, it's between connotation and denotation. The denotation of a word is what it explicitly and directly means, while its connotation is what it implies or is associated with.

Solution 2:

A definition is a literal thing. It is dry, and factual.

A connotation is subtle, and contextual. The definition of connotation I like best is (unusually) from Wikipedia: "Connotation is a subjective cultural and/or emotional coloration in addition to the explicit or denotative meaning of any specific word or phrase in a language"

The connotation is the emotional and cultural baggage that goes with the word. You can have a word whose literal definition is perfect for what you are trying to say, but whose connotation is extremely unfavorable.

Solution 3:

Connotation would be an implied meaning or emotional state via context or culture as opposed to a strict dictionary definition or meaning. For example: "Oh, great" can have plenty of different meanings or connotations. Said sarcastically, there is an extreme negative connotation along with the meaning of expressing acknowledgement. Said excitedly, there is an extreme positive connotation along with a very similar meaning.

Solution 4:

A more extrinsic view...a dictionary gives only a definition but rarely addresses connotation. In fact, you're lucky if you get the connotation of the definiend from the connotations and implicatures in the definition.