Literal

/ˈlɪt.ər.əl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who takes everything literally; lacking figurative understanding.

As a literal, she often misunderstood jokes and sarcasm.

adjective

Representing the exact words of the original text; not figurative or metaphorical.

He took her words in the literal sense, believing she meant every detail.

True to fact; not exaggerated; actual.

The literal interpretation of the law can lead to misunderstandings in its application.

Of or relating to the most basic and fundamental meaning of a word or phrase.

The literal meaning of the phrase 'kick the bucket' refers simply to kicking a bucket and not dying.

adverb

In a literal manner; actually.

He was literally running for his life during the emergency.

From Latin 'literalis', meaning 'of letters'.

literal translation

A word-for-word translation of a text.

take it literally

To interpret something in its most straightforward manner.

figurative vs. literal

The distinction between metaphorical language and direct meaning.

literal meaning

The actual meaning of a word or phrase without embellishment.

literacy

The ability to read and write.

literature

Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit.

literary

Concerning the writing, appreciation, or study of literature.

Used for emphasis, often in a hyperbolic context.

I was literally dying of laughter when he told that joke!

Sometimes used ironically to indicate exaggeration.

It's literally the best thing ever—said by someone after a small win.