Literate \Lit"er*ate\, a. [L. litteratus, literatus. See Letter.]

Instructed in learning, science, or literature; learned; lettered.

The literate now chose their emperor, as the military chose theirs. --Landor.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Literate \Lit"er*ate\, n.

1. One educated, but not having taken a university degree; especially, such a person who is prepared to take holy orders. [Eng.]

2. A literary man.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)