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Definition of illiteracy

illiteracy

/ɪˈlɪt.ɚ.ə.si/
il · lit · er · a · cy
Adverb:illiterately
•
Plural:illiteracies
•
Adjective:illiterate
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illiteracy Lexical Profile

illiteracy Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The inability to read or write.

Example

"Adult education programs have significantly reduced the rate of illiteracy in rural communities."

2

A lack of knowledge, competence, or familiarity in a particular subject or field.

Example

"The workshop was designed to address financial illiteracy among college students."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for illiteracy

• Nearby Words

illimani
illinois
illinois river
illiteracy
illiterate
illiterately
illness

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-17th century from 'illiterate' plus the noun-forming suffix '-acy', ultimately tracing back to the Latin 'illitteratus', meaning 'unlearned' or 'ignorant of letters'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Illiteracy. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/illiteracy
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