Literacy
/ˈlɪt.ər.ə.si/noun
The ability to read and write.
Did you know?In ancient times, literacy was often linked to priestly classes, who wielded the written word as a form of divine communication and control.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
literatus
“Skilled in letters, educated.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
literacĭa
“The state of being lettered or educated.”
Middle English
Middle English
literacie
“The quality of being able to read and write; education.”
Modern English
English
literacy
“The state of having the ability to read and write.”
Explore more surprising origins