literal

adjective

ˈli-t(ə-)rəl How to pronounce literal (audio)
Definition of literalnext
as in historical
restricted to or based on fact a literal account of the explorer's adventures is actually a lot less interesting than his own exaggerated stories

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of literal The rooms These days, glamping usually is more of a mentality than a literal descriptor—as such, yes, there are glam tents, but there are also cabins and suites (essentially, nicer cabins). — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026 The forecasting formula developed by Thomas is still kept under literal lock and key at the almanac’s headquarters in Dublin, New Hampshire, in an actual black box. — HubSpot, 1 Sep. 2026 The market decides, and participants can take their—literal—shot to win. — Finn Brunton, Harpers Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026 Shooting the transit, though, meant leaving KSC during launch, which meant sacrificing literal front row seats to one of the world's most powerful rockets. — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for literal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for literal
  1. historical
  2. factual
  3. true
  4. documentary
  5. nonfictional
Adjective
  • Bonesho said this latest interpretation doesn’t lessen the artifact’s historical importance.
    — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 3 Sep. 2026
  • In addition to the historical displays and remembrances, Bennett said, there will be music courtesy of local band Emerald City and games and activities for children.
    — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of historical
Adjective
  • The theory, which has no factual basis, underscored how such events can fan mistrust along national lines in the region.
    — Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Florida TaxWatch, an organization known for keeping a sharp eye on overspending, has a new website that breaks down the fiscal impact of Amendment 3 in ways that are fair and factual — unlike Ingoglia’s fictional claims.
    — Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Aug. 2026
Definition of factual
Adjective
  • The true main event will pit top AEW star Mercedes Mone against Willow Nightingale in yet another women’s world title match that will not go on last.
    — Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Unlocking the true nature of dark energy and dark matter could help astronomers understand what the universe is made of, how its expansion has changed over time, and if there is more to understanding gravity than meets the eye.
    — Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of true
Adjective
  • The InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace, also located on Via Veneto, will become the documentary hub.
    — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Her work combines documentary observation with staged composition to explore female perspectives, Berlins subcultures, and everyday intimacy.
    — PhotoVogue, Vogue, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of documentary
Adjective
  • This is what gives the film its experiential sincerity — the lived perspective of its Ukrainian crew leaving a nonfictional trace across every level of the fiction, something Stever handles with unusual reverence.
    — Sonya Vseliubska, IndieWire, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Pee-Wee as Himself, the 2025 Emmy award winner for best documentary or nonfictional special, is also among the nominees.
    — Brande Victorian, HollywoodReporter, 7 Apr. 2026
Definition of nonfictional

Browse Nearby Words

literacy
literal
literalism
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Literal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/literal. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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