literal

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   Taking words in their basic, exact meaning, not figurative.

   The literal meaning of the phrase is different from how people use it.

2. 2
   adj

   Following the exact words of the original, without changes.

   This is a fine literal translation, but it loses the poetry.

3. 3
   adj

   Real and actual, with no exaggeration.

   That is the literal truth.

From Middle English literal, from Old French literal, from Late Latin litteralis or literalis (“of or pertaining to letters or to writing”), from Latin littera or litera (“a letter”). See letter.

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