letter

A symbol in an alphabet.

"There are twenty-six letters in the English alphabet."

A written or printed communication, generally longer and more formal than a note.

"I wrote a letter to my sister about my life."

The literal meaning of something, as distinguished from its intended and remoter meaning (often contrasted with the spirit).

To print, inscribe, or paint letters on something.

(scholastic) To earn a varsity letter (award).

An identifying initial of the academic institution that is awarded to a member of a varsity team. It is made from structured cloth, and intended to be sewn to a piece of clothing such as a varsity sweater or varsity jacket.