beta

UK: ˈbiːtə | US: ˈbeɪtə

Definition

  1. n. the second letter of the Greek alphabet (Β, β)

  2. n. a version of software or hardware in a testing phase (e.g., "beta version")

  3. adj. referring to a subordinate or secondary position (e.g., "beta male")

Structure

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Etymology

Derived directly from the Greek letter "Β, β" (beta), which originated from the Phoenician letter "beth" (meaning "house"). The term was adopted into Latin and later English to denote the second position in sequences (e.g., alpha-beta). In modern contexts, "beta" evolved metaphorically in computing (testing phase) and social hierarchies (secondary status), retaining its original ordinal association.

Examples

  1. The Greek word "βιβλίο" (book) starts with the letter beta.

  2. The app is still in beta, so users may encounter bugs.

  3. Wolves in a pack often have a beta subordinate to the alpha.

  4. Scientists use beta particles in radiation studies.

  5. The beta release of the game attracted thousands of testers.