1. people who have not yet learned to read and write
Usage: anthropology; education

Examples

• The anthropologist studied communication methods among preliterates in the remote village.
• Preliterates often rely on oral traditions to preserve their cultural knowledge.
• The education program was designed to help preliterates develop basic reading skills.
• Many preliterates possess sophisticated knowledge systems despite lacking written language.
• The researcher documented how preliterates use symbols and drawings to convey information.
• Historical societies of preliterates developed complex social structures without written records.