notion

[ noh-shuhn ]

noun

1. a general understanding; vague or imperfect conception or idea of something:

   a notion of how something should be done.

2. an opinion, view, or belief:

   That's his notion, not mine.

3. conception or idea:

   his notion of democracy.

4. a fanciful or foolish idea; whim:

   She had a notion to swim in the winter.

5. an ingenious article, device, or contrivance; knickknack.
6. notions, small articles, as buttons, thread, ribbon, and other personal items, especially such items displayed together for sale, as in a department store.

notion

/ ˈnəʊʃən /

noun

1. a vague idea; impression
2. an idea, concept, or opinion
3. an inclination or whim

Other Words From

• notion·less adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of notion¹

First recorded in 1560–70; from Latin nōtiōn- (stem of nōtiō ) “examination, idea,” equivalent to (g)nōt(us), past participle of (g)nōscere “to come to know” + -iōn- suffix forming nouns; notify, -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of notion¹

C16: from Latin nōtiō a becoming acquainted (with), examination (of), from noscere to know

Example Sentences

The prevalence of adult play in this especially cohesive population may strengthen the notion that "societies characterized by cohesion and tolerance also exhibit higher frequencies of adult play," Samuni says.

From Science Daily

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who dismisses the notion of a Palestinian state, now appears poised to consolidate control over Palestinian territory.

From Los Angeles Times

And when she meets Fiyero, she says the same thing, but is caught off guard when she realizes he had none of those preconceived notions and didn’t want to ask any of those questions.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead, they’re filled with irritation at being told that embracing any traditional notions of masculinity and femininity marks them as insecure, infuriated misogynists.

From Salon

Secondly, contested notions of fairness are so often central to the most contentious political arguments, and this one is no different.

From BBC

Related Words

• approach
• assumption
• concept
• conception
• image
• impression
• knowledge
• opinion
• perception
• sentiment
• suggestion
• thought
• understanding
• view

When To Use

What are other ways to say notion?

A notion is a vague or imperfect idea or a general understanding of something. How is it different from thought, conception, and idea? Learn more on Thesaurus.com.