nonliterate

[ non-lit-er-it ]

adjective

, Anthropology.

1. preliterate.

Other Words From

• non·liter·a·cy noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of nonliterate¹

First recorded in 1945–50; non- + literate

Example Sentences

Such a practice would have been especially useful in nonliterate societies where knowledge was transmitted orally.

From New York Times

In nonliterate societies, minstrels occupy a place of power, both as guards of the people’s history and remodelers of the myths they tell.

From New York Times

“The big issue with a project of this sort is that these are nonliterate people,” he said.

From Washington Times

He was less interested in prehistory and in simpler, nonliterate societies.

From Literature

More quickly: The child who learns to read about his nonliterate ancestors necessarily separates himself from their way of life.

From Literature

Related Words

• crude
• rough
• rudimentary
• simple
• uncivilized