alphabet
noun
al·pha·bet
ˈal-fə-ˌbet 
-bət
1
a
: a set of letters or other characters with which one or more languages are written especially if arranged in a customary order
b
: a system of signs or signals that serve as equivalents for letters
Examples of alphabet in a Sentence
The Roman alphabet begins with “A” and ends with “Z.”
you need to learn the alphabet of genealogy before you can move on to more advanced study
Recent Examples on the Web
Jo-Ann Staves would help with tutoring children, teaching them English and the alphabet.
—
Anna Heqimi, Hartford Courant, 20 Feb. 2026
According to a University of Michigan study, a statistically significant chunk of students at the end of the alphabet got lower grades and worse feedback, probably because teachers get tired.
—Deni Ellis Béchard, Scientific American, 17 Feb. 2026
Lambert presents his call to action with the same legitimacy and irrefutability as the alphabet is taught to children.
—Anya Sesay, jsonline.com, 16 Feb. 2026
Under structured literacy instruction, students are given a systematic dose of phonics, moving carefully through the alphabet.
—Kathryn Muchnick, Louisville Courier Journal, 16 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for alphabet
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Anna Heqimi, Hartford Courant, 20 Feb. 2026
According to a University of Michigan study, a statistically significant chunk of students at the end of the alphabet got lower grades and worse feedback, probably because teachers get tired.
—Deni Ellis Béchard, Scientific American, 17 Feb. 2026
Lambert presents his call to action with the same legitimacy and irrefutability as the alphabet is taught to children.
—Anya Sesay, jsonline.com, 16 Feb. 2026
Under structured literacy instruction, students are given a systematic dose of phonics, moving carefully through the alphabet.
—Kathryn Muchnick, Louisville Courier Journal, 16 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for alphabet
Cite this Entry
“Alphabet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alphabet. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
alphabet
noun
al·pha·bet
ˈal-fə-ˌbet
-bət
1
: the letters of a language arranged in their usual order
2
: a system of signs or signals that serve as equivalents for letters
Etymology
Middle English alphabete "alphabet," derived from Greek alphabētos "alphabet," from alpha and bēta, the first and second letters of the Greek alphabet
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