Search Dictionary
Definition of alliterative

alliterative

/əˈlɪt.ə.rə.tɪv/
al · lit · er · a · tive
Adverb:alliteratively
JUMP TO:

alliterative Lexical Profile

alliterative Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to, characterized by, or containing alliteration, the repetition of identical or similar initial consonant sounds in neighboring words.

Example

"Old English poetry such as Beowulf relies heavily on alliterative verse rather than end rhyme to create rhythm."

• Rhymes for alliterative

• Nearby Words

alligator snapping turtle
alliterate
alliteration
alliterative
allium
allocate
allocation

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from 'alliteration' and the suffix '-ive', ultimately derived from Neo-Latin 'alliteratio', coined by the Italian humanist Giovanni Pontano from Latin 'ad-' (to) and 'littera' (letter).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Alliterative. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/alliterative
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.