semantic differential

noun

, Psycholinguistics.

1. a technique for measuring the connotative meaning of concepts by having an individual rate each concept on a series of graduated scales, each scale defined by a pair of polar adjectives, as good–bad or strong–weak.

Word History and Origins

Origin of semantic differential¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Market-Opinion employs what it calls an "eight-part semantic differential questionnaire"�pollster doubletalk for a technique in which a person is offered eight adjectives and asked to circle the one that most closely reflects his attitude toward an issue or a candidate.

From Time Magazine Archive