Alpha
Alpha (uppercase Α, lowercase α; Ancient Greek: ἄλφα, álpha, modern pronunciation álfa) is the first letter of the Greek alphabet. In the system of Greek numerals, it has a value of 1.
It was derived from the Phoenician and Hebrew letter aleph – an ox or leader.Letters that arose from alpha include the Latin A and the Cyrillic letter А.
In English, the noun “alpha” is used as a synonym for “beginning”, or “first” (in a series), reflecting its Greek roots.
Alpha (noun)
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.
Alpha (noun)
The name of the symbols Α and α used in science and mathematics, often interchangeable with the symbols when used as a prefix.
Alpha (noun)
The return of a given asset or portfolio adjusted for systematic risk.
Alpha (noun)
A person, especially a male, who is dominant, successful and attractive; (see alpha male).
Alpha (noun)
Alphabet.
Alpha (noun)
The first versions of a program, usually only available to the developer, and only tested by the developer.
Alpha (noun)
The level of translucency of a color, as determined by the alpha channel.
Alpha (noun)
The significance level of a statistical test; the alpha level.
Alpha (adjective)
Designates the first in an order of precedence.
“I am the alpha male.”
Alpha (adjective)
female archetype.
Alpha (adjective)
Designates some bright star, usually the brightest star, of a constellation.
“When space travel becomes feasible, I plan to visit Alpha Centauri.”
Alfa (noun)
The letter A in the ICAO spelling alphabet