A Meaning and Definition
A
Pronunciation
/eɪ/
Part of Speech
Article, indefinite
Definition
A single letter of the alphabet, used to form words and represent sounds in language.
Examples
- I ate an apple.
- The letter A is the first letter of the alphabet.
Etymology
The letter A originated from the Phoenician alphabet, with the first recorded use dating back to around 1500 BCE.
Usage Notes
A is often used as an indefinite article, used before nouns that refer to a non-specific person or thing.
Cultural References
A is referenced in various cultural contexts, including the letter A in the song “ABC” by the Jackson 5, and the phrase “A for effort” in pop culture.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- A to Z
- A-OK
Related Words or Phrases
- Alpha
- Ah
Collocations
- A and an
- A or an
Frequency of Use
A is a commonly used letter in the English language, appearing in over 7% of all written words.
Common Misspellings
- Eye
- Easy