alliterate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈlɪtəˌreɪt/
KK: /əˈlɪtəˌreɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To use the same beginning sounds in a series of words, especially in speech or writing.
Example
The poet chose to alliterate in her verses to create a musical quality.
Tense Forms
Past: alliterated
Past Participle: alliterated
Conversation
I just read a poem that really made me smile.
Oh really? What was special about it?
The way the author alliterates throughout the verses was so creative.
That sounds awesome! I love when writers play with words like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
repeat
echo
recur
Antonyms
diverge
differ
vary
transitive verb
Definition
To create a phrase or sentence where the same sound or letter is repeated at the beginning of several words.
Example
The poet decided to alliterate her verses to create a musical quality.
Tense Forms
Past: alliterated
Past Participle: alliterated
Conversation
Have you ever tried to alliterate your poems?
No, I haven’t, but it sounds interesting!
It can really add a nice touch if you do it well.
Root Explanation
Alliterate → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "littera" (meaning letter). The word describes the act of using the same letter or sound at the beginning of closely connected words.
Memory Tip
Think of 'to' ('ad-') use the same 'letter' ('littera') at the start of words — that's what alliterate means.
Visually Confused Words
illiterate
literate
alterate
alternate
altercate
allatrate
nonalliterated
iterate