What term is used for words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings, like "pair" and "pear"?

The term that describes words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings is "homophones." Homophones are a specific type of homonym and are characterized by their identical pronunciation, despite differing in meaning and often in spelling, which makes them a significant focus in language study and poetry. The example "pair" (a set of two) and "pear" (the fruit) perfectly illustrates this concept, as they are pronounced the same way but represent entirely different things. Understanding homophones is essential for effective communication and for mastering the nuances of English language and grammar.