Question

is the connotation of a word its literal meaning or a meaning that is not obvious or not stated

Answer 1

The connotation of a word refers to the emotional or associative meanings that are implied or suggested beyond its literal definition (or denotation). Connotations can include feelings, attitudes, or ideas that are attached to a word based on cultural or personal experiences. For example, the word "childlike" has a positive connotation of innocence and wonder, while "childish" has a negative connotation of immaturity. So, to answer your question, connotation is not the literal meaning; it encompasses meanings that are not explicitly stated but are understood in context.