homograph
nounUK /ˈhɒm.ə.ɡrɑːf/
US /ˈhɑː.mə.ɡræf/
A homograph is a word that is spelled the same as another word but has a different meaning.
The word "bat" is a homograph because it can mean a flying animal or a stick used in baseball.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A word that shares its spelling with another word but may be pronounced differently, as in "lead" (to guide) and "lead" (a metal).
"Lead" and "lead" are homographs that sound different.
3. In linguistics, any of two or more words that are written identically but differ in origin or meaning.
The homographs "bear" (to carry) and "bear" (the animal) come from different roots.
4. A term used in puzzles and word games for words that look the same but mean different things.
The crossword clue relied on a homograph to trick solvers.