1 written works, esp. those whose value lies in beauty of language or in emotional effect.
2 the realm of letters.
3 the writings of a country or period.
4 literary production.
5 colloq. printed matter, leaflets, etc.
6 the material in print on a particular subject (there is a considerable literature on geraniums).
Etymology: ME, = literary culture, f. L litteratura (as LITERATE)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.