alliterate

[ uh-lit-uh-reyt ]

verb (used without object)

, al·lit·er·at·ed, al·lit·er·at·ing.

1. to show alliteration:

   In “Round and round the rugged rock the ragged rascal ran,” the “r” alliterates.

2. to use alliteration:

   Swinburne often alliterates.

verb (used with object)

, al·lit·er·at·ed, al·lit·er·at·ing.

1. to compose or arrange with alliteration:

   He alliterates the “w's” in that line.

alliterate

/ əˈlɪtəˌreɪt /

verb

1. to contain or cause to contain alliteration
2. intr to speak or write using alliteration

Other Words From

• al·liter·ator noun
• nonal·liter·ated adjective
• unal·liter·ated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of alliterate¹

First recorded in 1810–20; back formation from alliteration

Example Sentences

“Everybody loves alliteration. If it rhymes or alliterates, you can sell that idea.”

From Los Angeles Times

“And he really did alliterate like that when you talked to him.”

From Los Angeles Times

Much of the alliterated statement still applies, only the cultural climate has shifted slightly, and more emphasis has been paid to the clever, candid and creative methods of entertainment.

From The Guardian

While Len thought he “moved like Spider-man,” which is apparently a bad thing, Bruno was effusive in his praise, alliterating an entire string of adjectives to great effect.

From Time

It helps that the words "latte" and "liberalism" alliterate.

From BBC