noun

1. the profession of an author; production of writings, esp. of imaginative prose, verse, etc.
2. 1. all writings in prose or verse, esp. those of an imaginative or critical character, without regard to their excellence: often distinguished from scientific writing, news reporting, etc.
   2. all of such writings considered as having permanent value, excellence of form, great emotional effect, etc.
   3. all the writings of a particular time, country, region, etc., specif. those regarded as having lasting value because of their beauty, imagination, etc. American literature
   4. all the writings dealing with a particular subject the medical literature
3. all the compositions for a specific musical instrument, voice, or ensemble
4. printed matter of any kind, as advertising, campaign leaflets, etc.
5. Archaic acquaintance with books; literary knowledge

Etymology: ME litterature < OFr < L litteratura < littera, letter