alif

noun

ˈälə̇f
plural -s
: the first letter of the Arabic alphabet consisting of a simple vertical stroke see Alphabet Table

Word History

Etymology

Arabic

First Known Use

1727, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alif was in 1727

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near alif

Cite this Entry

“Alif.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alif. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!