| alpha wave |
the type of brain wave that is a sign of relaxation, having frequencies from eight to thirteen hertz; alpha rhythm. |
| Alpheratz |
a bright star in the constellations Pegasus and Andromeda, having a magnitude of 2.0. |
| alphorn |
see "alpenhorn." |
| Alpine |
(l.c.) of, like, living in, or characteristic of high mountains or mountain regions above the timberline. [4 definitions] |
| alpinist |
one who climbs in the Alps or other similar mountains. [2 definitions] |
| Alps |
a high mountain range extending from southern France through Switzerland, Italy, Germany, and Austria, and into the Balkan region and Albania. |
| already |
by or before this time or that time; previously. [3 definitions] |
| alright |
all right; unharmed or undamaged, or free of the risk of harm or damage. [4 definitions] |
| Alsatian |
one of a breed of large dogs having a thick brownish or black coat, often used as guard dogs and as guide dogs for the blind; German shepherd. |
| also |
in addition; as well; too. [3 definitions] |
| also-ran |
(informal) one who lost in an athletic or political competition. |
| alt.1 |
abbreviation of "alternate," one authorized to act in place of another; substitute. |
| alt.2 |
abbreviation of "altitude," the height of a given object or location above a specified base, such as sea level or earth, esp. the angular distance of a celestial body, measured from the horizon. |
| Altaic |
a family of languages that includes Turkic, Mongolian, Tungusic, and Korean. [3 definitions] |
| Altai Mountains |
a central Asian mountain range that extends from western Mongolia into Russia and China. |
| Altair |
the brightest star in the constellation Aquila, having a magnitude of 0.8. |
| altar |
a raised structure, often a table or platform, upon or at which sacrifices or other religious ceremonies are performed. |
| altar boy |
a young male person who assists the clergy in religious services; acolyte. |
| altar girl |
a young female person who assists the clergy in religious services; acolyte. |
| altarpiece |
a work of art that decorates the area above and behind an altar. |
| altazimuth |
a telescope or other instrument that moves in altitude (up and down) and in azimuth (back and forth). |