Definitions of literal:

  • noun:   a mistake in printed matter resulting from mechanical failures of some kind
  • adjective:   limited to the explicit meaning of a word or text
    Example: "A literal translation"
  • adjective:   of the clearest kind; usually used for emphasis
    Example: "It's the literal truth"
  • adjective:   lacking stylistic embellishment
    Example: "A literal description"
  • adjective:   without interpretation or embellishment
    Example: "A literal translation of the scene before him"
  • adjective:   (of a translation) corresponding word for word with the original
    Example: "Literal translation of the article"
  • adjective:   being or reflecting the essential or genuine character of something
    Example: "A literal solitude like a desert- G.K.Chesterton"