rhizoverbBeta
Dictionarya
article

a

Used before a singular noun when its identity is not specified.

She picks a book from the library's display shelf.

Etymology
aOld Englishone

Old English ān meant “one.” Its use before a noun developed into the indefinite article, which introduces one member of a class without specifying which member.

More examples

  • We need a chair for our guest.
  • He hopes to become a teacher.
  • Please wait a minute before opening the oven.

Similar words

an
Used before a vowel sound rather than a consonant sound.
the
Identifies something particular rather than an unspecified member.