literacy

[lit-er-uh-see]

noun

1. the quality or state of being literate, especially the ability to read and write.

2. possession of education.

   to question someone's literacy.

   Synonyms: culture, learning

3. a person's knowledge of a particular subject or field.

   to acquire computer literacy;

   improving your financial literacy.

literacy

/ ˈlɪtərəsɪ /

noun

1. the ability to read and write

2. the ability to use language proficiently

Other Word Forms

• antiliteracy adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of literacy¹

First recorded in 1880–85; liter(ate) + -acy

Example Sentences

Newsom focused on the benefit of state initiatives, including transitional kindergarten, universal free school meals and more funding for before and after school programs and literacy coaches.

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“Making sure that people have access to credible, trustworthy health information that is tailored to their language and their literacy and all kinds of things is essential,” he said.

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While reading itself is a learned skill, research has found that the brain structures connected to literacy begin developing right after birth and continue across the first few years of life.

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For over two decades, Burton taught literacy skills and helped instill a love for reading in children across the country.

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Instead, “AI literacy” has become a buzzword of the back-to-school season, with a focus on how to leverage the potential of AI while minimizing its risks.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• education 
• knowledge 
• learning 
• proficiency