digital literacy
/ˈdɪdʒɪtəl ˈlɪtərəsi/
noun
Origin
Latin
digitus / littera — finger (basis for counting) / letter of the alphabet
Overview
Meaning Now
- The ability to find, evaluate, utilize, share, and create content using information technologies and the internet.
- The mastery of digital devices, software applications, and social platforms required to function effectively in a modern society.
Language path
Latin → English
Earliest form
digital literacy
Earliest period
late 20th century
Journey
The term gained prominence in the late 1990s as the internet transitioned from a specialized tool for academics and engineers into a ubiquitous platform for general public information and communication.
Evolution
- Classical Latin
digitus
“finger”
Root for 'digit' (numerical unit).
- Classical Latin
litteratus
“learned, educated”
Origin of 'literacy'.
- 1997, English
digital literacy
“Competence in digital media”
Coined to describe the shift from print-based literacy to screen-based navigation.
Connections
Word parts
digit
root
number/finger
-al
suffix
pertaining to
literacy
root
ability to read and write
Related across languages
French
littératie numérique
digital literacy
Spanish
alfabetización digital
digital literacy
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Related to digital literacy
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.