# braille

/ˈbɹeɪɫ/ (US) · /bɹˈeɪl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/braille
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a system of writing for people who are blind. It uses patterns of raised dots that you read by touching them with your fingers.

For teachers: a tactile writing system used by people who are visually impaired, consisting of raised dots arranged in cells to represent letters and numbers.

## Examples

- The elevator buttons have braille numbers next to them.
- Public libraries often provide books in braille to ensure that blind readers have equal access to literature.
- Advances in refreshable braille displays have allowed visually impaired professionals to access digital spreadsheets and code with the same tactile precision as traditional paper documents.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'braille book' or 'braille reader'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.