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

Members of the families in Beowulf which we have reason to think historic bear names which alliterate the one with the other.

From Project Gutenberg

Note, that not only do the names alliterate, but the alliteration is perfect.

From Project Gutenberg

All consonants alliterate with themselves, though usually sh, sp, and st agree only with the same combination.

From Project Gutenberg