Beta

/ˈbeɪtə/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The second letter of the Greek alphabet (Β, β), often used to denote the second in a series.

The variable was assigned the value of beta to indicate it was the second in the series.

A version of software or a product that is still in the testing phase and not yet released to the general public.

I downloaded the beta version of the app to help identify bugs before its official release.

In finance, a measure of the volatility of a stock or portfolio in relation to the market as a whole.

The beta of the stock was calculated to determine its risk compared to the overall market.

adjective

Referring to a testing phase of a product, especially software, that comes before full release.

The beta features of the software are still being developed and may change before the final version.

From Greek 'beta', the second letter of the Greek alphabet.

beta testing:

The process of testing a beta version of a product by users before its final release.

beta male:

A term often used in social dynamics to describe a man who is less assertive than an alpha male.

A submissive or less dominant male.

He's such a beta; he always lets his friends take charge.

Someone who is overly cautious or indecisive.

Stop being a beta and just take the leap.