BETA

noun

1. The second letter of the Greek alphabet (Β, β), preceded by alpha (Α, α) and followed by gamma, (Γ, γ). In modern Greek it represents the voiced labiodental fricative sound of v found in the English words have and vase.
2. Used in marking scheme: α, β, γ or α+, α, α-, β etc.
3. Average sensitivity of a security's price to overall securities market prices.

verb

1. To preliminarily release computer software for initial testing prior to final release.
2. To beta-read a text.

adjective

1. Identifying a molecular position in an organic chemical compound.
2. Designates the second in an order of precedence.
3. Preliminary; prerelease. Refers to an incomplete version of a product released for initial testing.