Definitions

1. noun

The first or most important letter in the Greek alphabet, representing a sound that is not found in English.

“The first chapter in a series of books is often referred to as the alpha chapter.”

2. adjective

Designating or relating to the first or most important in a series, class, or sequence.

“Alpha males are often seen as leaders in their social groups.”

3. noun

A prefix used in scientific and technical terms to denote the first or most important item in a series or sequence.

“In the alpha particle, the number of protons is equal to the atomic number of the element.”

4. noun

In ecology, a species that has a major influence on its environment or on other species within it.

“The alpha species in this ecosystem has a significant impact on the population dynamics of other species.”