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

Grief literacy is understanding the foundations and the fundamentals of loss and grief. — Mikaela Cohen, Fortune, 14 July 2026

Like reading, financial literacy has to be taught early and practiced often. — Arellana Barela Levenson, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2026

Dawson is focused on improving student achievement and strengthening literacy and math instruction. — Kellye Lynn, CBS News, 13 July 2026

Recent news about literacy, education and general smarts in California and across the country has been somewhat distressing. — Los Angeles Times, 13 July 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