Alphabet alliteration is a poetic device in which successive words, phrases, or lines begin with consecutive letters of the alphabet (A, B, C, etc.), combining phonetic repetition with sequential order. Unlike standard alliteration—which repeats a single initial sound—this technique imposes a dual constraint of sound and alphabetical progression, often for mnemonic, pedagogical, or ritualistic effect. Found in medieval bestiaries, children’s verse, and experimental poetry, alphabet alliteration can generate playful linguistic energy or impose artificial order on chaotic content, challenging poets to balance semantic coherence with the demands of the imposed sequence.

Alphabet alliteration uses sequential initial consonants (A, B, C…) across lines or phrases to create a structured sonic progression. Unlike standard alliteration (repeating one sound), this technique combines phonetic play with alphabetical order, often for mnemonic, pedagogical, or ritualistic effect. Found in medieval bestiaries, children’s verse, and experimental poetry. Students should consider how the constraint influences diction and whether meaning emerges from or resists the imposed order.