letter

let-ter · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A character representing one or more sounds used in speech; any of the symbols of an alphabet.

  2. 2.

    A written, typed, or printed communication sent to a recipient.

  3. 3.

    The precise terms of a statement or requirement; the strict verbal interpretation.

  4. 4.

    **(letters)** Literature; literary culture.

  5. 5.

    Inscribe letters on something.

Forms

plural: letters

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    to the letter — With exact adherence to every detail.
  • •
    letter of the law — The literal meaning of a law (vs. its spirit).
  • •
    dead letter — A law or practice no longer enforced.
  • •
    red-letter day — A memorable or important day.
  • •
    man/woman of letters — A scholar or author.
  • •
    love letter — A romantic written message.
  • •
    letter-perfect — Word-perfect; exactly correct.

Related words

See also: alphabet, character, mail, message, write
Synonyms: character, correspondence, epistle, missive

Etymology

From Old French lettre, from Latin littera ("letter of the alphabet"), which later came to mean "an epistle" as well. The Latin word is of uncertain origin but may be related to Etruscan.