Cryptic crossword clue
Expression of surprise about recording getting top position? 5

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word ALPHA

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
A
L
P
H
A


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The straight part
We know that "top position" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case top position = alpha.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does ALPHA mean?

ALPHA noun
  1. The name of the first letter of the Greek alphabet (Α, α), followed by beta. In the Latin alphabet it is the predecessor to A.
  2. Latin alpha
  3. The name of the symbols Α and α used in science and mathematics, often interchangeable with the symbols when used as a prefix.
  4. The return of a given asset or portfolio adjusted for systematic risk.
  5. A person, especially a male, who is dominant, successful and attractive; (see alpha male).
  6. (abbreviation) Alphabet.
  7. The first versions of a program, usually only available to the developer, and only tested by the developer.
  8. The level of translucency of a color, as determined by the alpha channel.
  9. The significance level of a statistical test; the alpha level.
  10. In omegaverse fiction, a person of a sexually-dominant (and sometimes secondary) gender/sex that is driven by biology, magic, or other means to bond with an omega, with males of this type often having canine-like genitalia.
ALPHA adjective
  1. Designates the first in an order of precedence.
  2. (of person, object or action) exhibiting characteristics of the alpha male/female archetype.
  3. Designates some bright star, usually the brightest star, of a constellation.

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