The denotative meaning of a word refers to its literal or dictionary definition, while the connotative meaning refers to the associated or implied meanings of a word. Denotation is the objective, universally accepted meaning of a word, whereas connotation can vary based on personal experiences, cultural factors, or emotional connections. While denotation focuses on the surface-level definition, connotation delves into the deeper, subjective associations and interpretations attached to a word.