Multiple Meaning Words Worksheets

Related ELA Standard: L.K.4.A

Core Standard
Answer Keys Here

This is where the English language basically gets it wrong. There are many words that when put in different context can have multiple meanings. It is a bit frustrating for new language learners. For example we could say, "I really like jam on my toast." In this sense "jam" is a delicious condiment that makes our bread taste great. Jam also has another meaning where it applies to fitting something into a tight space. At last look, linguists have compiled well over five hundred such words that are used like this in everyday speech and written communication. So, while this may confusing, it is a necessary skill to master. In this section of our website we will explore these words that have multiple personalities. This selection of worksheets will help you learn how to approach words that may seem awkward on your first read.

Multiple Meaning Words Worksheets To Print:

Words with Multiple Meanings - There is hidden meaning in each of these items. We are matching names of things to a selection of pictures.

Circle the Right Meaning - Which type of bat is it? It says to circle the picture, but you may want to use an arrow or standard line.

Same Words Different Meanings - You will actually use the same words for completely different context. Fill in the correct words for each sentence using the word bank.

Letter, Stamp, Tie, and Soil Twice - Another double use word activity. Match the words in the word bank with the correct picture. Each word will be used twice. Place a check mark beside each time you use a word.

Words That Are So Close In Meaning - What the heck are they talking about? We look at vocabulary words that have some background in athletic events.

Multiple Meaning Words Crossword Puzzle - Fill up the 7 question crossword. You will work on a puzzle that consists of six decisions to make.

Which Picture Is It? - This is kind of a Where's Waldo activity. Some of the images are not used.

Which (Tie, Fly, Seal, or Foot) Is It? - Match the picture to the correct meaning. Each word will be used twice.

The Sentence Says It All - Circle the correct picture for each sentence. I forgot about double sided vocabulary that comes from a deck of cards.

Which Picture Makes Senses (Cents)? - You have to love these questions and sentences. Some of these visuals will make think. We got a bit creative here.

Drawing Multiple-Meaning Words - Draw two different pictures for each word. Now it is your turn to get creative with yourself.

Words with Multiple Meanings - Circle the word in each sentence that has more than one meaning.

Meanings of Words That Fit - Fill in the blanks in the sentences using the word bank. Each word will be used twice.

Meaning Match in Sentences - Match the word with the correct sentence. Make sure that you note the separation in the middle of the page.

Pictures Worth At Least Two Words - Students will need to take their time with this one. Some of these will really interest you.

Little Help - Say the name of each picture. Then write a sentence that uses a different meaning of each term. Use the dictionary if you need help.

Different Angles - Write two sentences for each word. Each sentence should reflect a different approach to the vocabulary term.

How Differernt and Yet the Same - Pick one that fits both definitions that are attached to the pair.

Double Take - Tell us about the different ways in which you can view these terms.

Odd Ball - Which of these is not like the others?

Sharp Shooter - Choose one of the three terms to complete both of the sentences.

Sentencer - Write your own original sentence to demonstrate that you fully grasps the different ways in which those prompts can be used.

How Is It Used? - You will take a page out of the old context clue playbook.

Bolder Yet - This is similar to the last worksheet, but we also have you write sentences.

Proper Classes - Sometimes the meaning of a word changes depending on whether it is functioning as a noun, a verb, or an adjective. Read each sentence below. Then, based on the context, choose the correct word class for each bolded word. Check your answer by reading the definition.

Putting It In Pictures - Circle the picture that matches each meaning.

Picture It - Write the letter of the sentence that uses the bold word in the same way as the picture.

Think It, Draw It - You will dream up some terms that match your needs and then draw them.

Two Pictures to Cue - Write the letter of the sentence that uses the bold word in the same way as the picture.

Trace and Say - A nice way to get you into the process overall.

Why Do Some Words Have Multiple Meanings?

Open up a dictionary and look for words. More often than not, you will find words that have multiple meanings. Technically almost every word has more than one meaning depending on the context they are used in. Words can have varying meanings and may differ in usage.


Homonyms


These words fall straight into the category. Words that spell the same and have similar pronunciation, but they have different meanings. This can be confusing when words look and sound the same, but have different meanings. But, you can decipher the meaning by reading the sentence and figure out the contextual meaning of the words. This can be better understood with the help of examples.


DATE


Date is her favorite fruit to eat.


What is your date of birth?


CRANE


That bird is called a crane.


We have to use a crane to lift heavy blocks.


RIGHT


I am right.


Take a right turn.


Human rights violators should be punished.


Homographs


These are words that spell the same, but have different pronunciation and meanings. In writing, it can be a task to find the meaning of these words as used in the context. However, in speech, since they have different pronunciation, it is easy to distinguish their meaning. Some examples of homographs are


BOW


She loves to put a bow in her hair.


Bow down to the king.


MINUTE


Wait a minute!


That is only a minute spot.


SOW


A female pig is known as sow


We will sow tomato seeds.


So when dealing with words that have multiple meanings, it is important to read sentences because the wrong understanding of the word can change the meaning of the entire text. Technically speaking there are very few words in the English language that do not have more than one definition. When is the last time that you looked up a term or phrase in the dictionary and found only a single definition? That is very rare! When you take into that English has nearly one hundred and sixty unique dialects and every geographic region has its own slang, it is amazing that we are able to communicate with one another so effectively. The best method to practice when you come across words like this is to focus on the context in which it appears. May take a few re-reads, but it will become clear with a little time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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