alpha male
Alpha male (noun) means a man seen as dominant, assertive and socially in charge, who takes the lead in a group and expects others to follow. Example: “He plays the alpha male in every meeting he walks into.”
How to use alpha male
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA man who acts like the dominant one in the group.
Informal and increasingly mocking; in serious writing about behaviour, prefer 'dominant male'.
The plural is 'alpha males', and the shortened form 'alpha' can stand alone: 'he thinks he's an alpha'.
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He plays the _____ in every meeting he walks into.
Etymology
From alpha, the first letter of the Greek alphabet, used in animal behaviour studies to label the top-ranking individual in a group.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for alpha male
See all rhymes for alpha male →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an alpha male and a beta male?
In the popular usage, an alpha male is cast as dominant, confident and commanding, while a beta male is cast as agreeable, deferential and supportive. Both are informal social labels rather than recognised psychological categories.
Is the alpha male idea scientifically accurate?
Largely not, as it is usually applied to people. The term came from early studies of captive wolf packs, and researchers later found that wild wolf packs are typically family groups led by breeding parents, so the 'alpha' framing has been substantially revised.
Is calling someone an alpha male a compliment?
It depends entirely on tone. Some people use it admiringly of a confident leader, but it very often carries a mocking edge, suggesting swagger and posturing rather than real authority.
What is the meaning of alpha male?
"alpha male" (noun) means a man seen as dominant, assertive and socially in charge, who takes the lead in a group and expects others to follow.