What is the term used for repeated consonant sounds, typically at the beginning of words?

The term that signifies the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words is alliteration. This literary device is commonly used in poetry and prose to create rhythm, enhance the musical quality of language, and draw attention to particular phrases or themes. Alliteration can be seen in many well-known phrases, such as "She sells seashells by the seashore," where the repetitive 's' sound emphasizes the imagery and flow of the sentence.

The other terms refer to different linguistic or literary concepts. Assonance, for example, involves the repetition of vowel sounds, often found within words rather than at the start. Cliché denotes an overused expression that has lost its original impact due to frequent usage. Emotive language refers to words chosen for their emotional impact, which can evoke specific feelings in the reader but does not focus on the sound structure like alliteration does.