literalism
|lit-er-al-ism|
/ˈlɪtərəˌlɪzəm/
literal interpretation
Etymology
'literalism' originates from the Latin word 'littera,' meaning 'letter.'
'littera' transformed into the French word 'littéral,' and eventually became the modern English word 'literalism.'
Initially, it meant 'pertaining to letters,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'adherence to the explicit meaning of words.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the interpretation of words in their usual or most basic sense without metaphor or allegory.
His literalism made it difficult for him to understand the poem's deeper meaning.
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Noun 2
adherence to the explicit meaning of a text or doctrine.
The religious sect was known for its strict literalism in interpreting the scriptures.
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Last updated: 2025/02/28 11:30