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

Thierry Frémaux, Cannes Film Festival chief, stressed that instruction in media literacy is crucial. — Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 11 Sep. 2026

Gress said literacy coaches would need to shift their roles to be more involved inside classrooms and fit with the measure's definition. — Erick Trevino, AZCentral.com, 10 Sep. 2026

This is happening as foundational literacy skills are eroding. — Mia Osmonbekov, Fortune, 10 Sep. 2026

One very famous promoter of books and literacy, Dolly Parton, was offered the award several times in recent years, but turned it down. — ABC News, 10 Sep. 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