Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbreɪl/

Definitions

• A system of raised dots and patterns used by blind or visually impaired people for reading and writing.
• A writing and reading system developed for blind individuals that uses tactile dots arranged in a grid pattern.

Usage Examples

• She learned to read using the braille system at a young age.
• The book was printed in braille to make it accessible to blind readers.
• In many countries, public signage includes braille for the visually impaired.

Etymology

The word "Braille" is derived from the name of Louis Braille, a French inventor and educator who created the system in 1824 when he was just 15 years old. He developed the system to assist blind people in reading and writing by using tactile dots.

Synonyms

• Tactile writing
• Raised writing
• Blind text

Antonyms

• Printed text
• Standard writing

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /ˈbreɪl/
• British English: /ˈbreɪl/
• Australian English: /ˈbreɪl/

Historical Usage

Braille was invented by Louis Braille in 1824 when he was just 15 years old. It was initially designed for military communication but was later adapted to create a reading and writing system for the blind. It revolutionized the education of blind individuals and remains the standard tactile writing system used worldwide today.

Cultural Nuances

The introduction of the Braille system represented a significant cultural shift, providing blind individuals with an unprecedented opportunity to read, write, and engage with society on an equal footing. Braille literacy is celebrated worldwide, with Braille displays, books, and public signage helping to make spaces more inclusive for people with visual impairments.

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