When used specifically, it refers to the inability to read or write. In a more general sense, illiterate may signify a lack of familiarity with some body of knowledge (as in being "musically illiterate") or indicate …

ILLITERATE definition: unable to read and write. See examples of illiterate used in a sentence.

ILLITERATE meaning: 1. unable to read and write: 2. knowing little or nothing about a particular subject: 3. someone…. Learn more.

Definition of illiterate adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Someone who is illiterate does not know how to read or write. A large percentage of the population is illiterate.

Mar 28, 2026 · Adjective illiterate (comparative more illiterate, superlative most illiterate) Unable to read and write.

illiterate unable to read and write; having little or no formal education: He has a lot of native intelligence but he is illiterate.

Factsheet What does the word illiterate mean? There are four meanings listed in OED's entry for the word illiterate. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

unable to read and write: Many adults in this country are still illiterate. having or demonstrating a lack of knowledge in a particular field: musically illiterate.

Illiterate describes someone who is unable to read and write. Illiterate may also be used to mean someone who is generally uneducated or ignorant about a particular subject. The word illiterate is a …