alphabetical

[al-fuh-bet-i-kuhl]

adjective

1. in the order of the letters of the alphabet.

   The list is in alphabetical arrangement.

2. alphabetic.

alphabetical

/ ˌælfəˈbɛtɪkəl /

adjective

1. in the conventional order of the letters or symbols of an alphabet

2. of, characterized by, or expressed by an alphabet

Other Word Forms

• alphabetically adverb
• nonalphabetical adjective
• nonalphabetically adverb
• prealphabetical adjective
• prealphabetically adverb
• unalphabetical adjective
• unalphabetically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of alphabetical¹

First recorded in 1540–50; alphabet + -ical

Example Sentences

Here’s what we were looking for, listed in alphabetical order — and why they could be cause for concern.

From Los Angeles Times

Behind them are reigning sovereigns, and other delegations are sat in alphabetical order in French, the official language of diplomacy, on other benches.

From BBC

The tickets are displayed in alphabetical order with spaces left for the missing stops.

From BBC

The three organisations agree an alphabetical list in advance of each season.

From BBC

Other free agents to watch by position and alphabetical order, with their ages in 2025.

From Los Angeles Times