Alpha

/ˈæl.fə/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The first letter of the Greek alphabet, written as 'Α' in uppercase and 'α' in lowercase.

In mathematics, the alpha symbol is often used to represent angles.

A dominant individual in a group, especially in animal behavior.

The alpha wolf led the pack in their hunt for food.

A term used in finance to indicate an investment's performance relative to a benchmark.

The fund manager claimed to have generated a significant alpha over the index.

adjective

Indicating a dominant position or ranking.

In the social hierarchy, she was considered the alpha female of the group.

Referring to the first or most significant in a series.

The alpha version of the software is available for testing.

From the Greek 'alpha', the first letter of their alphabet.

alpha male

A man who is seen as a dominant leader among a group.

alpha test

The first phase of testing a product before it is released more widely.

alpha and omega

The beginning and the end; the entirety of something.

beta

The second letter of the Greek alphabet; often used to refer to a second version or phase.

leader

A person who leads or commands a group.

dominance

The state of being in control or exerting power over others.

A term used to describe a highly competitive and assertive person.

He's so alpha; he always has to be the best in everything.

Used in dating contexts to refer to attractive, confident men.

She only dates alpha types who can take charge.