digital literacy

noun

: the ability to use digital technology and resources (such as computers, online material, etc.) to find, evaluate, use, and communicate information effectively and responsibly while taking appropriate care to avoid technical and personal vulnerabilities
We need to put a higher value on taking the time to synthesize, interpret and reflect on the information we take in every day. The next step in digital literacy is not just understanding how to find reputable online sources but refining our content consumption according to our personal priorities and values.Manoush Zomorodi
Libraries play a crucial role in addressing the "digital divide," the gap between individuals who have access to technology and those who don't. Libraries help bridge this space by enhancing digital literacy, teaching computer skills and offering safe internet connectivity.Lori Sims

Examples of digital literacy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Most workers display strong digital literacy with activities like generating reports, drafting campaigns or modeling scenarios. Kevin Chan, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 The grant funds have equipped the center with technology, furniture and educational resources, enabling structured job readiness coaching, resume and interview preparation, digital literacy training, GED support and lifelong learning opportunities, the release said. Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 8 June 2026 Although the concept of multiliteracy can be considered as incorporating digital literacy too, in the context of this discussion, it should be mentioned separately because a hypertext user needs first of all digital skills in order to manage multimodal ensembles in hypermedia context. Carmen Daniela Maier, Encyclopedia Britannica, 26 May 2026 Child development and digital literacy experts say families across the country are navigating the same challenges as parents look to connect with their teens in an increasingly online world. Rachel Hale, USA Today, 23 May 2026 Students need strong foundational skills in reading, writing, math, and critical thinking, but also communication skills, financial literacy, digital literacy, and real-world learning experiences. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 20 May 2026 Older adults may be more frequently targeted because scammers rely on a combination of isolation and lower digital literacy. Panashe Matemba-Mutasa, Mercury News, 13 May 2026 Improving digital literacy and helping young people understand misinformation, online risks, and healthy usage habits is critical. Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Oc Register, 6 May 2026 The recommendations span the gamut of expanding research into hate crime data, improving security funding, addressing the display of hate symbols, expanding social media and digital literacy, and increasing educational resources for professionals teachers and students. Beth Bailey, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1992, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of digital literacy was in 1992

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Cite this Entry

“Digital literacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/digital%20literacy. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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