To denote means to indicate or represent something directly and specifically. When a red octagon denotes a stop sign, it signals drivers to stop. When a skull and crossbones denotes poison, it warns of danger. The word describes how symbols, words, or signs point to clear, definite meanings.

In writing and language, denote refers to a word's literal, dictionary definition, as opposed to feelings or associations it might carry. The word “home” denotes the place where you live, while it might also suggest warmth, safety, or belonging (those emotional associations are called connotations).

You might see denote used in math and science too. In algebra, the letter x often denotes an unknown number. On a map, different colors might denote different elevations or temperature zones. Scientists use specific symbols to denote chemical elements: H denotes hydrogen, and O denotes oxygen.

Think of denote as the “official” meaning of something, its precise designation. When you need to explain exactly what a symbol stands for or what a term specifically means, you're talking about what it denotes.