What is the definition of alliteration?

Beginners

Alliteration is a literary device where words in a phrase or sentence start with the same sound or letter. For example, "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers" is a sentence that uses alliteration because many of the words start with the same 'p' sound.

Intermediate

Alliteration is a literary device that involves the repetition of the initial sound of two or more words in a sentence. It is often used to create rhythm and emphasis in poetry, songs, and prose. Examples of alliteration include Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers, She sells seashells by the seashore, and Betty Botter bought some butter.

Advanced

Alliteration is a literary device that involves the repetition of sounds in a sequence of words that are close to each other. The repetition of sounds can occur at the beginning, middle or end of the words. Alliteration is typically used to create musicality, rhythm, and emphasis in a piece of writing or speech. Advanced use of alliteration may include more subtle and complex variations in sound patterns while still maintaining the overall effect of repetition and musicality. Additionally, alliteration may be used as a tool for creating symbolism, metaphor, or imagery.