alpha

word

/ˈæɫfə/
AL-fuh
/ˈælfɐ/
AL-fuh

Definition

Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet. It is also used to describe something that comes first, is most important, or, informally, a person seen as dominant or leading in a group.

Usage & Nuances

Common in technical, scientific, and business contexts: 'alpha version', 'alpha test', 'alpha male'. The informal person meaning can sound stereotyped or exaggerated, so use it carefully. In investing, 'alpha' also means return above a benchmark.

Example Sentences

This software is still in alpha.

basic

Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet.

basic

Some people call him the alpha of the team.

basic

We can try the alpha build now, but expect a few bugs.

natural

He likes to act like the alpha, even when nobody asked him to lead.

natural

In finance, generating alpha consistently is harder than it sounds.

natural