POLYSEMY AND LEXICAL AMBIGUITY IN URHOBO PROVERBS

Language is a dynamic and multifaceted tool of communication, often characterized by polysemy and lexical ambiguity, which contribute to depth and richness in meaning. This study examines the phenomena of polysemy and lexical ambguity in Urhobo proverbs, exploring how multiple meanings of words shape interpretations, cultural wisdom, and linguistic expression. Given that proverbs serve as an essential comp nent of Urhobo oral tradition, their meanings are often layered, requiring contextual understanding to fully grasp their implications. The study investigates various polysemous words in Urhobo proverbs, such as "evun" (which can mean stomach, pregnancy, or inside), "oto" (ground, movement, or meaning), and "hwe" (kill, punish, or break), among others. These words introduce lexical ambiguity, allowing for multiple interpretations depending on the speaker’s intent, audience, and cultural setting. By analyzing specific proverbs, this research highlights how ambiguity is intentionally used to convey moral lessons, social values, and philosophical insights within the Urhobo language. A qualitative approach was employed, drawing data from Urhobo oral literature, linguistic analysis, and interviews with native speakers. The findings reveal that polysemy and lexical ambiguity are deliberate linguistic strategies that enrich Urhobo proverbs, making them flexible tools for storytelling, education, and moral instruction. Moreover, the study emphasizes the role of context in deciphering the intended meaning of ambiguous expressions, underscoring the complexity of Urhobo semantics.