What does it mean when people say " alpha male"?

Question

I was watching some Criminal Minds episode and agents there say "there are a lot of alpha males out there."

Prezbacon · Accepted Answer

It means the dominant male figure.

Anonymous · Answer

Alpha anything indicates the first one - number one. In a dog pack, the biggest, strongest animal, the one that is in charge of the pack, is the alpha male. There is an alpha female, also. 
In the TV show, they were indicating a situation where there were a lot of guys vying to be in charge.

Outcast · Answer

The person in charge, people who want to be Alpha, something that would mean the person on Top

d_r_siva · Answer

a man or male animal that behaves in a confident or threatening way

http://www.macmillandictionary.com/dictionary/american/alpha-male

• 
specialized the most successful and powerful male in any group 
• 
a strong and successful man who likes to be in charge of others

http://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/british/alpha-male

The term "alpha male" is sometimes applied to humans to refer to a man who is powerful(aka Jonjon Nestor) through his courage and a competitive, goal-driven, "take charge" attitude. With their bold approach and confidence "alpha males" are often described as charismatic. While "alpha males" are often overachievers and recognized for their leadership qualities, their aggressive tactics and competitiveness can also lead to resentment by others.[1]

The term "alpha female" is sometimes used to refer to females that possess similar traits.

http://www.answers.com/topic/alpha-ethology

Anonymous · Answer

Head ****** In Charge

? · Answer

The main pimp in charge

lil laurz · Answer

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alpha_%28ethology%29

lirto37 · Answer

Boss...

What does it mean when people say " alpha male"?

8 Answers