How is alliteration defined?

Alliteration is defined as the occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words. This literary device is employed to create rhythm, enhance the flow of text, or draw attention to specific passages. It is often found in poetry, prose, speeches, and everyday language, adding a musical quality and memorability to the wording.

For example, phrases like "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers" showcase alliteration through the repeated initial 'p' sound, generating a playful and engaging effect that can make the text more enjoyable to read or hear. This repetition can also help to emphasize certain themes or emotions within the piece.

The other options focus on different literary techniques, such as vowel sound repetition, rhyme, and imagery, which, while important in their own right, do not capture the essence of alliteration.