1
: the ability to read and write
The program is intended to promote adult literacy among people who have had very little schooling.
Their goal is to achieve basic literacy.
literacy programs/skills/tests
2
: knowledge that relates to a specified subject
computer literacy [=knowledge of how to use a computer]
cultural literacy [=knowledge of the culture you live in]
Cite this Entry
“Literacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/literacy. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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