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Definition of beta

beta

/ˈbeɪtə/
be · ta

Plural:betas
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beta Lexical Profile

beta Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to the second stage of testing for a computer program or commercial product before its general release.

Example

"Users can sign up to try the beta features before the official software update."


2

Designating the second in a series of items, categories, or scientific classifications, such as the second-brightest star in a constellation or a subordinate animal in a social hierarchy.

Example

"The researchers observed how the beta males interacted with the dominant leader of the pack."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for beta

• noun

1

A pre-release version of a piece of software or other product distributed to a limited audience for testing under real-world conditions.

Example

"The developers released an open beta of the video game to gather player feedback and fix bugs."


2

The second letter of the Greek alphabet (Β, β), transliterated as 'b'.

Example

"In physics formulas, the Greek letter beta is frequently used to represent specific angles or velocities."


3

A statistical measure of the volatility or systematic risk of a financial security or portfolio in comparison to the market as a whole.

Example

"The portfolio manager selected utility stocks with a low beta to minimize risk during the economic downturn."


4

Information or advice regarding how to successfully complete a specific climbing route or boulder problem.

Example

"The experienced climber shared helpful beta about the hidden handhold near the top of the rock face."

• Rhymes for beta

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed via Latin from Ancient Greek 'bēta', which was adapted from the Phoenician letter 'beth', literally meaning 'house'.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Beta. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/beta
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