Which word is defined as a word that sounds alike another but differs in meaning and spelling?

The term that describes a word that sounds alike another but differs in meaning and spelling is "homonym." Homonyms are words that have the same pronunciation but different meanings and different spellings, such as "bear" (the animal) and "bare" (to uncover). This concept is fundamental in understanding the nuances of the English language, as homonyms can lead to confusion in both writing and speech if not properly distinguished.

Synonyms, on the other hand, are words that have similar meanings but may not sound alike or have similar spellings. Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings. Homophones, while similar in sound, refer specifically to words that sound the same but may differ in spelling and meaning; however, they don't encompass differences in spelling for the same-sounding words. Thus, homonym is the most comprehensive term in this context.