1. a set of letters or symbols in a fixed order, used to represent the basic sounds of a language in writing
2. the basic elements or rudiments of any subject
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The English alphabet has 26 letters.
• Children learn the alphabet in kindergarten.
• The Greek alphabet is used in mathematics and science.
• She recited the alphabet backwards.
• The Russian alphabet uses Cyrillic letters.
• He’s still learning the alphabet of computer programming.
• The Hebrew alphabet reads from right to left.