What linguistic term refers to words that sound alike but differ in meaning and spelling, such as 'stair' and 'stare'?

Homophones

The word 'homophone' comes from the Greek roots 'homo' (same) and 'phone' (sound), literally meaning 'same sound.' While they sound identical, these words usually have completely different origins and meanings. A helpful way to remember the term is that 'phone' refers to sound, just like a telephone carries your voice.