1
: one who does not or cannot read
2
: a child who is slow in learning to read

Examples of nonreader in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Even to nonreaders, Wolfe, who died Monday at age 88, was instantly recognizable by his white suits. — latimes.com, 16 May 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1689, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nonreader was in 1689

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Cite this Entry

“Nonreader.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonreader. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

nonreader

noun
1
: one who does not or cannot read
2
: a child who is slow in learning to read
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