What is the term for the direct or dictionary meaning of a word?

The term that refers to the direct or dictionary meaning of a word is denotation. Denotation provides the precise, objective meaning that you would find in a dictionary, devoid of any emotional or cultural associations that may arise from the word's use in different contexts. In contrast to connotation, which involves the feelings or ideas that a word may evoke beyond its literal meaning, denotation strictly pertains to what is explicitly understood from the word itself. This concept is fundamental in understanding language, as it allows for clear communication by establishing a baseline understanding of words based on their definitions. The other options do not capture the specific notion of a word's direct meaning.