literature

[lit-er-uh-cher, -choor, li-truh-] / ˈlɪt ər ə tʃər, -ˌtʃʊər, ˈlɪ trə- /

NOUN

written matter, both fictional and nonfictional

Synonyms

STRONGEST

article biography brochure composition drama essay history information leaflet lore novel pamphlet poetry prose research story

STRONG

abstract belles-lettres books classics comment critique discourse discussion disquisition dissertation exposition findings humanities letters lit observation paper report summary theme thesis tract treatise treatment writings

WEAK

literary works précis written work

Antonyms

STRONGEST

ignorance

STRONG

quiet silence

WEAK

speech

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Messrs. Curtin and Burgess implicate an entire influential field of literature projecting future climate damages.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

While shortening attention spans may be to blame for the shift in literature, Huehls argues that some writers are intentionally engaging with it.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

“I think literature is always adapting to the moment we live in,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

Juniors and seniors at her school take a science-fiction literature class in which they study “Fahrenheit 451,” a 1953 book about censorship and authoritarianism.

From Salon • Apr. 26, 2026

So I studied literature and liked it better.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

Vocabulary lists containing literature

St. Patrick's Day Vocabulary: Words With Irish and Gaelic Roots

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

National Librarian Day

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!