POLYSEMOUS WORDS AND THEIR ROLE IN THE LEXICAL STRUCTURE

This paper investigates the phenomenon of polysemy and its function in shaping the lexical structure of languages, with a particular focus on Azerbaijani.Polysemy, defined as the capacity of a single lexical item to carry multiple but related meanings, plays a crucial role in semantic development, communicative flexibility, and linguistic economy.The paper analyzes the theoretical underpinnings of polysemy, distinguishes it from homonymy, and discusses its importance in language evolution, translation studies, and literary expression.By examining semantic networks, contextual interpretations, and cross-linguistic comparisons, the study highlights the integral role polysemous words play in enriching lexical structure.