Illiterate Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ɪˈlɪtərət/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Lacking the ability to read or write; unable to read or write.

Examples

• The organization provides literacy programs to help individuals become illiterate.
• Many people remain illiterate in rural areas due to limited access to education.

Etymology

The word “illiterate” comes from the Latin “illiteratus”, meaning “uneducated” or “without letters”.

Usage Notes

The term “illiterate” is often used to describe individuals who are unable to read or write due to lack of education or other factors. It is important to use the term with sensitivity and respect.

Cultural References

In the book “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, the character Fatima is described as illiterate but has a deep understanding of the world.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Blind as an illiterate” is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone who is unaware or uninformed about something.

Related Words or Phrases

Ignorant, uneducated, unsophisticated, unlettered

Collocations

Illiterate person, illiterate rate, illiterate population

Frequency of Use

The word “illiterate” is commonly used in discussions about education and literacy rates.

Common Misspellings

Illiterite, Illiteret, Illetterate