Analphabet

/ˌæn.æl.fəˈbɛt/ noun

Definition

A person who cannot read or write; someone who is illiterate.

Etymology

From Greek 'an-' (without) plus 'alphabe' (alphabet). This term was used in early 20th-century academic contexts, especially in discussions of literacy campaigns and educational statistics.

Kelly Says

The word 'analphabet' reveals that literacy was so central to being considered 'educated' that the Greeks invented a word literally meaning 'without alphabet' to describe those who lacked it.

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