denote

 
Pronunciation: /dɪˈnəʊt/

verb

[with object]
  • be a sign of; indicate: this mark denotes purity and quality
  • stand as a name or symbol for: the level of output per firm is denoted by X

Derivatives

denotative

Pronunciation: /-tətɪv/
adjective

Origin:

late 16th century (in the sense 'be a sign of, mark out'): from French dénoter or Latin denotare, from de- 'away, thoroughly' + notare 'observe, note' (from nota 'a mark')

For an explanation of the difference between denote and connote, see connote (usage).