Word

alpha

noun B2

/ˈæl.fə/

Meanings

noun

the first letter of the Greek alphabet

noun

the most dominant or leading person or animal in a group

adjective

relating to the first stage or earliest version of something, especially software or a product

Definition

Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet and is often used to mean “the first” or “the leading one.”

Alpha is the name of the first letter in the Greek alphabet. In school subjects like science and math, it is used as a symbol or label for something, often the first or main item in a set. In everyday language, it can also refer to the most dominant or leading member of a group.

Examples

In physics class, alpha particles were discussed as part of radioactive decay.
She described him as the alpha in their team because everyone followed his lead.
They invited a few users to try the alpha version of the app before the public release.
I labeled the first option as alpha to keep the list organized.
You can often spot the alpha in the group by who sets the pace.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes use alpha as a synonym for “best” in any context, but it usually means “first” or “dominant/leading,” depending on the situation.