Alphabet

/ˈæl.fə.bet/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A set of letters or symbols in a fixed order used to represent the basic sounds of a language.
The English alphabet consists of 26 letters.
The basic set of rules or principles governing a particular field or area.
Understanding the alphabet of the law is essential for any aspiring lawyer.

Etymology

The word 'alphabet' comes from the first two letters of the Greek alphabet: alpha and beta.

Common Phrases and Expressions

alphabet soup:
A chaotic assortment of letters, often used metaphorically for confusion.
to learn one's ABCs:
To learn the basics of something, often used regarding learning to read and write.
the ABCs of something:
The fundamentals or basic principles of a subject.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

A way of referring to someone who is inexperienced or a beginner.
He's just an alphabet when it comes to video games.
A term used to describe chaotic or mixed information, similar to 'alphabet soup'.
That report was pure alphabet!