beta

be-ta · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The second letter of the Greek alphabet (B, b).

  2. 2.

    Relating to a preliminary or test version.

  3. 3.

    A preliminary version of a product, especially software, released for testing.

  4. 4.

    (finance) A measure of the volatility of a security relative to the market.

  5. 5.

    (slang) A person who is not assertive or dominant.

Forms

plural: betas

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    beta version — A pre-release version of software for testing.
  • •
    beta test — Testing of a product before full release.
  • •
    beta blocker — A medication that reduces blood pressure.

Related words

See also: alpha, gamma

Etymology

From Greek bēta, from Phoenician beth ("house"), the second letter of the Phoenician alphabet.