Definition & Meaning of "alpha male"in English

What is the origin and meaning of the phrase "alpha male"?

The slang term alpha male refers to a man who is perceived as dominant, confident, assertive, and often physically or socially powerful, typically seen as a leader in social or professional settings. The concept originated in animal behavior studies during the 20th century, where "alpha" described the highest-ranking male in a group, such as a wolf pack leader. By the 1970s, the term began to be applied to humans, and in the 1990s it gained popularity in media and self-help culture to describe men who excel in business, dating, or competitive environments. While some use it positively to praise leadership and charisma, others criticize it as promoting outdated or toxic ideas of masculinity, and modern science has challenged the original animal hierarchy model that inspired the term.