alarm
n. · v.-
1 warning device (n.) B1 Intermediatea machine or device that makes a loud noise to warn you about danger, like a fire or a thief.
a mechanical or electronic device designed to emit a signal as a warning of danger or unauthorized intrusion.
ExampleThe smoke alarm started ringing because I burnt the toast.
ExampleThe building's security alarm was triggered accidentally when a staff member entered the restricted zone without deactivating the sensors.
-
2 clock for waking up (n.) A2 Elementarya clock or phone app that makes a sound to wake you up at a specific time.
a device or software function used to rouse a person from sleep at a predetermined time.
ExampleI set my alarm for seven o'clock so I wouldn't be late for work.
ExampleHe found it difficult to adjust to the early shift, often sleeping through his alarm despite the high volume of the buzzer.
- alarm clock
- wake up call
Show 2 more sensesShow fewer
-
3 feeling of fear (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea sudden feeling of fear or worry that something dangerous is happening.
a state of sudden anxiety or fear resulting from the realization of danger.
ExampleThe news of the storm caused great alarm among the people living near the coast.
ExampleThe sudden drop in the company's share price caused considerable alarm among the board of directors, leading to an emergency meeting.
-
4 to worry someone (v.) B1 Intermediateto make someone feel worried or afraid.
to cause someone to feel a sudden sense of danger or anxiety. Transitive, always requiring an object.
ExampleI don't want to alarm you, but I think I smell gas in the kitchen.
ExampleThe doctor was careful not to alarm the patient while explaining the potential risks associated with the upcoming surgery.
From Middle English alarme, alarom, borrowed from Middle French alarme, itself from Old Italian all'arme! (“to arms!, to the weapons!”), ultimately from Latin arma (“arms, weapons”).
- Nounalarm
- Adjectivealarming