ALPHA Synonyms: 68 Similar and Opposite Words

alpha

noun

ˈal-fə

Definition of alpha

as in beginning

the point at which something begins money is not the alpha and omega—the beginning and end—of life's purpose

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of alpha Alpha-gal syndrome occurs when a tick bite triggers an immune reaction to a molecule called galactose-α-1,3-galactose (long for alpha-gal) that’s found in food products like beef, pork, dairy, and, separately, tick saliva. — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 2 Sep. 2026 With each member bringing her own distinct charm and personality, Hearts2Hearts looks set to further establish themselves as icons of the Z-alpha generation. — Billboard Japan, Billboard, 30 Aug. 2026 Even if returns are not aided by a weak dollar, investors need to be able to have confidence the stocks will generate alpha over time. — Eric Rosenbaum, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026 Cox said alpha-synuclein, the misfolded proteins that cause Parkinson's disease, can sometimes start in the gut and spread up the vagus nerve — the nerve that carries signals between your brain, heart and digestive system. — Norah O'Donnell, CBS News, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for alpha

Recent Examples of Synonyms for alpha

Noun

One thing that has changed since the beginning of the charter is the relationship between cabinmates Kat and Gen, who used to be close until Gen got a little too comfortable.

— Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2026
That equipment ultimately failed to lure back shoppers and the company conducted another round of layoffs at the beginning of the year.

— Jordan Valinsky, CNN Money, 22 Sep. 2026

Definition of beginning

Noun

The 43-year-old right-hander was making his second start of the year and first since March 30 in a season derailed by a sore hip and hamstring injury.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 27 Sep. 2026
But that response, or leadership — a trait teammates and coaches see far more from Herbert than the public — is one of several reasons why the Chargers are supporting their quarterback despite the offense’s sloppy start to the season.

— Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 26 Sep. 2026

Definition of start

Noun

Green Bay Packers’ all-time leading rusher Ahman Green, who recently announced his diagnosis with early-onset Parkinson’s disease, will get the Matthew Thomas Robinson Courage Award.

— Angelique Jackson, Variety, 21 Sep. 2026
After the show, the remainder of the tour was halted by the onset of COVID-19, and the rescheduled shows were later canceled due to health complications related to Dion’s stiff-person syndrome diagnosis.

— Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 20 Sep. 2026

Definition of onset

Noun

Pakistan routinely accuses Kabul of allowing militants, particularly the Pakistani Taliban, to operate from Afghan territory and launch attacks across the border.

— MUNIR AHMED, Arkansas Online, 26 Sep. 2026
The new 280-footer, currently known as Project 410, will become the world’s largest sloop upon launch.

— Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of launch

Noun

The day before commencement, Metze spent the afternoon watching Texas Tech softball on TV.

— Benjamin Wofford, New Yorker, 21 Sep. 2026
The commencement of large payments before the works are completed has created the timing gap referred to above, squeezing liquidity in the immediate term.

— Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026

Definition of commencement

Browse Nearby Words

alp

alpha

alpha and omega

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Style

“Alpha.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/alpha. Accessed 28 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of alpha

noun

Example Sentences

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Gen Alpha

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Going Greek: 7 Words from the Greek...

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