Definitions

1. noun

A person who interprets language and texts in a strict, literal sense, without allowing for figurative or metaphorical meanings.

“The professor was a literalist and rejected any interpretation of the poem that did not match its literal meaning.”

2. noun

A person who adheres strictly to the literal meaning of a law, text, or other written document.

“The lawyer was a literalist when it came to interpreting the contract, and she argued that the fine print should be taken at face value.”