What Is Alliteration?

By jamie

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Alliteration refers to the close grouping together of a series of words that have the same first consonant sound. Its use is common where the first letter in a string of words is visibly repeated, giving a rhythmic pattern. It, however, can also be seen where the spelling of the consonants is dissimilar, but the sound of the words is similar.

This stylistic device is often applied in poetry, but can also be found in other literary writing such as in marketing slogans and famous sayings. Alliteration can also often be used as a tongue twister that adds an element of fun intending to cause someone to trip up when repeating a phrase quickly. Here’s some popular alliterations that have been used in poetry, rhymes, and common sayings.

1. She Sells Seashells by the Seashore

This is the title to and first line of lyrics to a popular children’s nursery rhyme. This tongue twister makes generous use of words starting with “s” throughout the entire rhyme. Some of the often-repeated words include seashore, seashells, sells, and she, in varied arrangements to make coherent sentences. It is an entertaining rhyme that is often sung to help children, and even adults, work on their enunciation. Enunciation refers to the correct sounding out or pronunciation of words. Repeating the same sounding words in different orders also helps to encourage focus and memorization. It is often considered a feat to be able to recite the entire rhyme without making a mistake.

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