1. 1. A written symbol or character representing a speech sound and being a component of an alphabet.
   2. A written symbol or character used in the graphemic representation of a word, such as the h in Thames. See Note at Thames.
   3. Literary culture; belles-lettres.
   4. Learning or knowledge, especially of literature.
   5. Literature or writing as a profession.
   6. A piece of type that prints a single character.
   7. A specific style of type.
   8. The characters in one style of type.
2. A written or printed communication directed to a person or organization.
3. A certified document granting rights to its bearer. Often used in the plural.
4. Literal meaning: had to adhere to the letter of the law.
5. letters (used with a sing. verb)
   1. Literary culture; belles-lettres.
   2. Learning or knowledge, especially of literature.
   3. Literature or writing as a profession.
   4. A piece of type that prints a single character.
   5. A specific style of type.
   6. The characters in one style of type.
6. Printing
   1. A piece of type that prints a single character.
   2. A specific style of type.
   3. The characters in one style of type.
7. An emblem in the shape of the initial of a school awarded for outstanding performance, especially in varsity athletics.

1. To write letters on.
2. To write in letters.

1. To write or form letters.
2. To earn a school letter, as for outstanding athletic achievement: She lettered in three collegiate sports.

Synonyms: These nouns denote a written communication directed to another: received a letter of complaint; the Epistles of the New Testament; a missive of condolence; a thank-you note.

1. The act, process, or art of forming letters.
2. Letters inscribed, as on a sign.