What is the term for objective and abstract meanings, often found in dictionaries?

The term that refers to objective and abstract meanings, typically found in dictionaries, is denotative. Denotation is the direct, explicit meaning of a word or phrase, often aligned with its definition listed in a dictionary. This aspect of language focuses on the specific, concrete meaning without the influence of emotions or associations that the word might evoke.

Denotative meanings provide clarity and precision, allowing for clear communication and understanding, especially in contexts where accuracy is essential, such as legal documents or academic writing. Thus, when seeking the definition of a term in a dictionary, one is looking for its denotative meaning, as it represents the standard or most accepted definition used in language.

Connotative meanings, in contrast, involve the feelings, emotions, or associations that a word may evoke beyond its literal definition. Descriptive primarily refers to a manner of detailing or portraying rather than a type of meaning, and literal describes a strict interpretation of words without metaphor or exaggeration but does not necessarily encompass the abstract meanings found in dictionaries. Therefore, denotative accurately captures the essence of the question regarding objective and abstract meanings in language.