Able to read and write; having knowledge or competence in a specified area.
From Latin litteratus meaning 'marked with letters, learned', derived from littera meaning 'letter'. The word entered English in the 15th century when literacy was rare and highly valued, initially referring only to those educated in Latin texts.
The definition of 'literate' has evolved dramatically - what once meant simply knowing how to read now includes concepts like 'computer literate' or 'financially literate.' This expansion reflects how literacy has transformed from a basic skill to a multifaceted requirement for modern life, with new literacies constantly emerging.
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