alarm

[əˈlɑːm]

alarm Definition

• 1. a warning of danger, usually a loud noise or flashing light
• 2. a device that makes a loud noise or flashing light to warn of danger
• 3. a feeling of fear or worry that something unpleasant or dangerous might happen

Using alarm: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "alarm" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The alarm went off and woke me up.

• Example

  The fire alarm sounded and we all had to evacuate the building.

• Example

  I set my alarm for 6am so I can wake up early.

• Example

  The news caused great alarm among the public.

• Example

  The government issued an alarm about the potential dangers of the new virus.

alarm Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for alarm

• alert
• signal
• siren
• buzz
• warning

Phrases with alarm

• sound the alarm

  to give a warning of danger

  Example

  The security guard sounded the alarm when he saw the intruder.

• false alarm

  a warning of danger that turns out to be false or unnecessary

  Example

  The fire alarm was a false alarm and there was no fire.

• raise the alarm

  to alert others to a dangerous or urgent situation

  Example

  She raised the alarm when she saw smoke coming from the kitchen.

Origins of alarm

from Old French 'alarme', from Italian 'all'arme', meaning 'to arms'

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Summary: alarm in Brief

An 'alarm' [əˈlɑːm] is a warning of danger, usually a loud noise or flashing light, or a device that produces such a warning. It can also refer to a feeling of fear or worry about something unpleasant or dangerous. Examples include 'The alarm went off and woke me up,' and 'The government issued an alarm about the potential dangers of the new virus.' Phrases like 'sound the alarm' and 'raise the alarm' denote giving a warning of danger.