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Braille Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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braille

[breษชl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

reading system

Braille is a tactile writing system used by people who are visually impaired. It consists of patterns of raised dots that represent letters and numbers. The system was developed by Louis Braille in the early 19th century and has become the standard for written communication among the blind. Braille allows individuals to read and write independently, providing them with access to literature, education, and information. Variants of Braille also exist for music notation and mathematics.

Synonyms

dot system, tactile alphabet.

Examples of usage

  • She learned to read Braille.
  • Braille books are available at the library.
  • He uses Braille to label his belongings.
  • Braille displays are used with computers.
  • Teaching Braille is essential for literacy.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Braille was created by Louis Braille in France in the early 19th century.
  • The original system was inspired by a method used by the military for secret communication.
  • Louis lost his sight as a child and developed this system to help himself and others read.

Social Impact

  • With braille, visually impaired people can read books, street signs, and more, increasing their independence.
  • It has also been adapted for many languages around the world, promoting literacy among the blind community.
  • Braille is used in various public places, from elevators to menus, helping to create more inclusive environments.

Technology

  • Modern technology has introduced electronic braille displays that connect to computers and smartphones.
  • There's a smartphone app that allows users to translate text to braille in real time.
  • 3D printing is being used to create braille materials more quickly and affordably.

Cultural Representation

  • Braille is celebrated each year on World Braille Day, January 4th, honoring Louis Braille's birthday.
  • Artists include braille in their works as a way to incorporate accessibility into contemporary art.
  • Literature, such as children's books, is increasingly featuring braille alongside print to encourage learning from a young age.

Education

  • Braille is taught in schools for the blind, emphasizing its importance for literacy and education.
  • Many universities offer courses on braille transcription and the importance of accessibility.
  • Learning braille can help sighted individuals better understand the experiences of those with visual impairments.

Origin of 'braille'

The word 'Braille' originates from the surname of Louis Braille, a Frenchman who became blind at a young age due to an accident. Despite his visual impairment, he excelled in his studies and invented the Braille writing system at the age of 15, in 1824. The system was based on a military code called 'cubit', which used dots and dashes to convey information in the dark. Over the years, Braille evolved, and in 1854, it was officially recognized as the standard method for reading and writing by and for the blind. Louis Braille's invention opened new doors for education and communication, allowing visually impaired individuals to gain access to written texts. Braille has since been adapted in various languages and remains a vital tool for literacy and independence for many people worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,366, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.