n.
- a character representing one or more of the sounds used in speech; any of the symbols of an alphabet.
▸US a school or college initial as a mark of proficiency, especially in sport.
- a written, typed, or printed communication, sent by post or messenger.
- the precise terms of a statement or requirement:
adherence to the letter of the law.
-
(letters)
literature.
▸archaic erudition.
- Printing a style of typeface.
v.
- inscribe or provide with letters.
- US informal be awarded a letter as a mark of proficiency in sport.
Phrase
- to the letter
with adherence to every detail.
Derivative
Etymology
ME: from OFr. lettre, from L. litera, littera ‘letter of the alphabet’, (pl.) ‘epistle, literature, culture’.