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Homophones are words that are pronounced the same while differing in derivation, meaning, or spelling. They belong to the larger group of  homonyms, some pairs of which have both pronunciation and spelling in common. 

Two homophones will speak alike,
To qualify as homonyms.
Some words may simply dress as twins--
Let people hail them “homonyms.”

These quiet ones are “heteronyms,”
Not speaking up or sharing laughs.
They may indulge in similar trims,
And even pose with matching scarves.

Some homonyms share sound and look
And mirror clear for eye and ear.
'Tis meaning where these words unhook,
Still homophones to those who hear.

Thus pike are fish not fished with pike;
No seed you sow will grow to sow;
Beware the bear that's bare of hair;
Mistake it not for milking cow.