Definition

Not able to read or write; lacking education or knowledge from books.

Example

Many people in the past were unlettered and could not read or write.

Conversation

I saw a shirt today that was completely unlettered and plain.

Really? Sometimes those simple designs are the best.

Yeah, I think it makes a statement without all the text.

Definitely! An unlettered look can be really stylish.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unlettered → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "lettered" (from the Old English "leornian", meaning to learn or to read). The word "unlettered" means not having learned to read or write, or being illiterate.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being able to 'read or learn' ('lettered') — that's why unlettered means not being able to read.

Visually Confused Words