Literature
/ˈlɪt.ə.rə.tʃər/noun
Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit.
Did you know?In ancient times, literature was believed to be a divine gift, connecting humanity to the cosmos through the written word.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*leit-
“to gather or collect, often associated with reading or writing.”
Latin
Latin
literatura
“the writing formed with letters, encompassing the art of writing.”
Old French
Old French
literature
“the body of written works, particularly those of artistic value.”
14th Century
Middle English
literature
“the written works of a particular genre or period, often with an emphasis on creative expression.”
Modern English
English
literature
“the collective written works recognized for their artistic merit.”