Definition

Describing someone or something that does not have the ability to read or write.

Example

In some regions, many people remain nonliterate due to a lack of educational resources.

Conversation

I was reading about different cultures and learned some are still nonliterate.

Really? I didn't know that some communities don't have a written language.

Yeah, it's fascinating how they communicate in other ways.

Absolutely, it makes you appreciate the diversity in human expression.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonliterate → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "literate" (from Latin "literatus", meaning educated or able to read and write). The word "nonliterate" describes someone who is not educated or unable to read and write.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'literate' meaning 'able to read and write' — so nonliterate refers to someone who is not able to read or write.

Visually Confused Words