beta

noun

UK /ˈbiːtə/

US /ˈbeɪtə/

The second letter of the Greek alphabet.

The teacher wrote the Greek letter beta on the board.

SYNONYMS

second letter B (Greek)beta character

RELATED WORDS

alpha gamma Greek alphabet letter

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A version of software that is tested before the final release.

She tried the beta of the new game and found a few bugs.

3. The second in a series or ranking.

In the study, the beta group received the new treatment.

4. A type of brain wave linked to relaxed, awake states.

Meditation can increase beta activity in some people.

5. A test version of a product given to users for feedback.

The app is still in beta, so expect some changes.