alpha
Forms
- Plural
- alphas
Definitions
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.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.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.Latin alpha: the Latin letter Ɑ (minuscule: ɑ).
1.Designates the first in an order of precedence.
- I am the alpha male.
2.Designates some bright star, usually the brightest star, of a constellation.
- When interstellar travel becomes feasible, I plan to visit Alpha Centauri.
3.Clipping of alphabetical.
- Sort the list in alpha order.
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.