Homonyms vs. Homophones?

[annettemarie]

I always was taught that the two words were interchangable (synonyms), but now I just read that a homonym is two words that are spelled and pronounced the same but have different meaning (ie: beat can be a verb meaning to hit or a noun meaning a steady rhythmic sound) and a homophone is two words that sound the same but are spelled differently (flour/flower, night/knight, etc).

I guess it doesn't really matter all that much but it's going to bother me all day. Anyone know the scoop on this?

[lynsage]

They are not interchangeable and those definitions are correct.

[Ruthla]

Homophones: to, too, and two, as in:

The two two train comes in at two to two
the two two two train comes in at two to two, too.

[LauraLoo]

Here's a fun book that explains the differences, just in case you want to explore a little more:
How Much Can a Bare Bear Bear?: What Are Homonyms and Homophones?
http://www.amazon.com/How-Much-Can-B...4782206&sr=8-1

[annettemarie]

Laura, thanks so much-- that looks great!

And thanks for the confirmation.

[zjande]

Ack!! AM, I'm so glad you posted this. I have always thought they were synonymous, too! And have drilled that into my son's brain. I guess I'd better fix that!

[annettemarie]

I live to propel others into a state of disequilibrium.

[LoMaH]

annette
A couple of years ago, when my kids used to watch Between the Lions on PBS, I especially enjoyed this song. Your post reminded me of it, although it's about homophones only.

Between the Lions: Brian McKnight & Cleo sing "Homophones"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3prL9EHifw0

[annettemarie]

Thanks! That will be a great intro to the topic.