alphabet

noun

al·​pha·​bet ˈal-fə-ˌbet How to pronounce alphabet (audio)
-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
2
alphabet table

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
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.
Introduction to Arabic Calligraphy: Discover the timeless art of Arabic calligraphy through the artistic practice of handwriting based on Arabic alphabet. Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2025 All these words are associated with the same letter in the alphabet. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 2 Mar. 2025 The spring 2025 couture season was no exception, with collections by an alphabet of designers — Ashi Studio to Zuhair Murad, stopping by Chanel, Dior, Germanier, Elie Saab, Schiaparelli and Giambattista Valli along the way. James Fallon, WWD, 22 Feb. 2025 What to Buy Trending Deals & Products A charming wooden dollhouse, dual-sided alphabet puzzle, and more indoor toys. Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Parents, 7 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for alphabet

Word History

Etymology

Middle English alphabete, from Late Latin alphabetum, from Greek alphabētos, from alpha + bēta beta

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of alphabet was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Alphabet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alphabet. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

alphabet

noun
al·​pha·​bet ˈal-fə-ˌbet How to pronounce alphabet (audio)
-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

More from Merriam-Webster on alphabet

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