Which of the following is an example of a connotative word?

The term "fat" serves as an example of a connotative word because it carries additional emotional and cultural implications beyond its literal definition. While "fat" objectively describes a physical state (referring to having an excess of body weight), it often evokes negative feelings or social stigma related to body image, health, or desirability. This emotional weight is what makes "fat" connotative, as it can influence a listener's perception and response.

In contrast, the other words—"house," "tree," and "book"—are primarily denotative. They convey straightforward, objective meanings without the added layers of emotion. A "house" refers to a structure for living, a "tree" denotes a plant with a trunk and branches, and a "book" signifies a collection of written or printed pages. These terms do not invoke strong emotional responses or cultural associations in the same way "fat" does, which highlights the nature of connotation as a broader and more nuanced aspect of language.