Legible Meaning and Definition
Legible
Pronunciation
/ˈlɛdʒɪbəl/
Part of Speech
Noun or Adjective
Definition
A character or text that is clear and easy to read, or a person who is intelligible and easy to understand.
Examples
- The legible writing on the blackboard was a relief for the students.
- The doctor was legible in his explanation of the patient’s diagnosis.
Synonyms
- Intelligible
- Clear
- Distinct
Antonyms
- Illegible
- Unclear
- Indistinct
Etymology
The word “legible” comes from the Latin “legibilis,” meaning “readable.” It has been used in English since the 15th century.
Usage Notes
When describing a person, “legible” is often used to denote someone who is articulate and easy to understand, while when describing a character or text, it refers to its clarity and readability.
Cultural References
The term has been used in various cultural contexts, such as in literature and film, to describe a character’s ability to convey their thoughts and feelings clearly.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Making something legible is often an idiomatic phrase used to describe making something clear or easy to understand.
Related Words or Phrases
- Illegible
- Intelligible
- Clear
- Distinct
Collocations
- Legible handwriting
- Legible language
- Legible text
Frequency of Use
The word “legible” is relatively uncommon in everyday conversation, but it is frequently used in academic and professional contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Legibl
- Ligible
- Legibly