Which literary device involves the repetition of a consonant sound at the beginning of words?

The literary device that involves the repetition of a consonant sound at the beginning of words is alliteration. This technique creates a rhythmic, musical quality in language, often enhancing the mood or tone of a piece. Commonly used in poetry, prose, and even brand names, alliteration can grab the reader's attention and make phrases more memorable. For instance, phrases like "wild and windy" or "sweet smell of success" exemplify this device effectively.

In contrast, assonance refers to the repetition of vowel sounds within words, while consonance focuses on the repetition of consonant sounds that can occur anywhere in the words. Onomatopoeia refers to words that phonetically imitate sounds, such as "buzz" or "sizzle," rather than focusing on consonant sounds specifically at the start of words. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for analyzing and appreciating literary text.