alphabetism noun4 •An initialism: an abbreviation which is read letter by letter, such as UN.Some alphabetisms are written as if they weren't alphabetisms at all, like deejay for DJ, disc jockey, or emcee for MC, master of ceremonies. — 2002 •Discrimination on the basis of the first letter of a name.The injustice of "alphabetism" is, of course, a thorn in the Zitser side, and he playfully promises to assign the problem to "alphabetically neutral" aides. — 1983 •Excessive reliance upon the alphabet or alphabetic structures. •The ability to read an alphabet, a rudimentary form of literacy. formsalphabetisms