literacy

noun

lit·​er·​a·​cy ˈli-t(ə-)rə-sē 

: the quality or state of being literate

a program to promote adult literacy

Synonyms of literacy

• education
• knowledge
• learning
• scholarship

Examples of literacy in a Sentence

The program is intended to promote adult literacy among people who have had very little schooling.

Their goal is to achieve basic literacy.

Recent Examples on the Web

Steeped in therapy culture and financial literacy content, young Americans are fluent in boundary-setting and open to frank conversations about money and mental load. — Grace Kelleher, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026

The 10-week program focuses on job readiness, life skills and financial literacy, Forbes reported. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 14 Oct. 2026

Researchers point to a range of factors behind literacy challenges, from educational inequities and learning disruptions to differences in access to resources. — Corynn Winston, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2026

Siebel Newsom pointed to the financial literacy requirement in California high schools beginning with the 2030-31 graduating class. — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 13 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing literacy

• digital literacy
• visual literacy

Rhymes for literacy

• illiteracy

Kids Definition

literacy

noun

lit·​er·​a·​cy ˈlit-ə-rə-sē 

ˈli-trə-sē

: the quality or state of being literate

computer literacy

especially : ability to read and write