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

Financial literacy requirements need to be increased for high school graduation and admission to any American university as well as any trade school or enlistment in the United States military. — Doug Wojcieszak, Washington Post, 5 Oct. 2026

Emphasis on early literacy Parton, most remembered as a popular country singer, embraced many musical genres during her long and successful career in show business. — Alex H. Poole, The Conversation, 2 Oct. 2026

That includes teaching children financial literacy, career development, civic engagement and cultural arts. — The Sacramento Bee Staff, Sacbee.com, 1 Oct. 2026

The State Board of Education has set a clear goal of making Maryland one of the top 10 states in the nation in literacy and mathematics, the foundation for the well-rounded education every Maryland child deserves. — Joshua L. Michael, Baltimore Sun, 1 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