literature
/ˈlɪtərətʃər/
noun
Origin
Latin
litteratura — writing, a writing, grammar, learning
Overview
Meaning Now
- Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit.
- Books and written material produced on a particular subject.
- The body of written works of a culture, language, or period.
Literal older meaning
writings formed with letters
Language path
Latin → Old French → Middle English → English
Earliest form
literature
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The term originally encompassed all written information, including scientific or technical manuals. It was not until the 18th century that 'literature' became specialized to denote 'belles-lettres' or imaginative, artistic writing.
Evolution
- 1st century BC
litteratura
“alphabet, grammar, learning”
Derived from 'littera' (letter).
- 14th century
literature
“book learning, acquaintance with letters”
Borrowed from Old French.
- 18th century
literature
“written works of artistic merit”
Shifted to describe quality rather than just general writing.
Connections
Word parts
liter-
root
letter
-atura
suffix
state or condition of
Related across languages
French
littérature
literature
Italian
letteratura
literature
Explore next
Related to literature
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.