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Alliterative: meaning, definitions and examples

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alliterative

 

[ əˈlɪtəreɪtɪv ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

speech pattern

Alliterative refers to a stylistic literary device in which a series of words in a sentence or phrase begin with the same consonant sound or letter. This technique is often used in poetry and prose to create rhythm, enhance musicality, and promote memorability. It can also serve to emphasize certain words or themes within a text. Alliteration is commonly found in brand names, slogans, and titles, as it can make them more catchy and appealing.

Synonyms

consonance, repetition, rhyme

Examples of usage

  • Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.
  • Silly Sally shooed sheep.
  • Betty Botter bought some butter.

Translations

Translations of the word "alliterative" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aliterativo

🇮🇳 अलिटरटिव

🇩🇪 alliterativ

🇮🇩 aliteratif

🇺🇦 алітеративний

🇵🇱 aliteracyjny

🇯🇵 頭韻の (とういんの)

🇫🇷 allitératif

🇪🇸 aliterativo

🇹🇷 aliteratif

🇰🇷 두운의 (duun-ui)

🇸🇦 تكرار الحروف (takrār al-ḥurūf)

🇨🇿 aliterativní

🇸🇰 aliteratívny

🇨🇳 头韵的 (tóuyùn de)

🇸🇮 aliterativen

🇮🇸 alliteration

🇰🇿 аллитеративті

🇬🇪 ალიტერატიული (alit'erat'iuli)

🇦🇿 allitirativ

🇲🇽 aliterativo

Word origin

The term 'alliterative' is derived from the word 'alliteration', which comes from the Latin word 'alliteratio', meaning 'to call together'. This Latin word is composed of 'ad-' meaning 'to' or 'toward' and 'litera' meaning 'letter'. Alliteration has been used since ancient times in poetry and oral traditions, where it was employed to create memorable lines and enhance the musical quality of the spoken word. In the Old English epic poem 'Beowulf', for instance, alliterative verse was a prominent feature, showcasing how this technique has persisted through centuries. The popularity of alliteration has continued into modern times, influencing poetry, song lyrics, and literary works across diverse genres.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,389, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.