literality

[ lit-uh-ral-i-tee ]

noun

, plural lit·er·al·i·ties.

1. the quality or state of being literal; literalness.
2. a literal interpretation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of literality¹

First recorded in 1640–50; literal + -ity

Example Sentences

If her description of “the Factory” strikes a superficial note, we can ascribe its stripped-down literality to Natsuki’s automaton identity.

From New York Times

“With this style, we are looking for the crude side of the message, the literality,” Ms. Madesta said.

From New York Times

In its underlying structure and symmetry and its avoidance of literality, the exhibit is as effective as such a temporary garden can be in a concrete cavern devoid of natural light.

From Washington Post

An obdurate, self-contained literality plagues autistic consciousness.

From Salon

Lattimore’s literality — English words arranged in Greek syntax — produces a language that is barely English, let alone representative of Homer’s poetry.

From New York Times