noun

1. (epigraphy) A misprint (or occasionally a scribal error) that affects a letter.

2. A value, as opposed to an identifier, written into the source code of a computer program.

3. A propositional variable or the negation of a propositional variable. Wp

Synonyms: literal constant, typo

adjective

1. Exactly as stated; read or understood without additional interpretation; according to the letter or verbal expression; real; not figurative or metaphorical.

   “The literal translation is “hands full of bananas” but it means empty-handed.”

2. Following the letter or exact words; not free; not taking liberties.

   “A literal reading of the law would prohibit it, but that is clearly not the intent.”

3. Consisting of, or expressed by, letters.

   “a literal equation”