Lernwerd

alpha

//ˈæl.fə//

Noun

A word that identifies a person, place, thing, or idea.

Adjective

A word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun.

Note for alpha

Mnemonics, your own examples, reminders…

Forms

Plural
alphas

Definitions

Noun

A word that identifies a person, place, thing, or idea.

  1. 1.The name of the first letter of the Greek alphabet (Α, α), followed by beta. In the Latin alphabet it is the predecessor to A.

  2. 2.The name of the symbols Α and α used in science and mathematics, often interchangeable with the symbols when used as a prefix.

    • I will attempt to make an alpha particle ("α-particle") with the Large Hadron Collider.
  3. 3.The return of a given asset or portfolio adjusted for systematic risk.

    • Similarly, alphas are 2.33% larger than that of the equivalent monthly alphas using compounded returns while no changes can be found using arithmetic returns.
  4. 4.Latin alpha: the Latin letter Ɑ (minuscule: ɑ).

Adjective

A word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun.

  1. 1.Designates the first in an order of precedence.

    • I am the alpha male.
  2. 2.Designates some bright star, usually the brightest star, of a constellation.

    • When interstellar travel becomes feasible, I plan to visit Alpha Centauri.
  3. 3.Clipping of alphabetical.

    • Sort the list in alpha order.
  4. 4.Exhibiting characteristics of the alpha male/female archetype.

Frequency

Overall

Rare· #4486

By learning goal

Everyday conversation
Rare
General reading & writing
Rare
Academic
Rare
Literature
Rare

Etymology

Etymology tree

Proto-Semitic *ʔalp-

Phoenician 𐤀𐤋𐤐 (ʾlp)bor.

Ancient Greek ἄλφα (álpha)bor.

English alpha

From the Ancient Greek ἄλφα (álpha), the first letter of the Greek alphabet, from the Phoenician 𐤀 (ʾ, “aleph”). Doublet of alif and aleph.

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