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Alarm Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alarm

[əˈlɑːm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

clock

A device that makes a loud noise to wake people up or to alert them of danger.

Synonyms

alert, signal, warning.

Examples of usage

  • The alarm clock woke me up at 7 a.m.
  • The fire alarm went off in the building.
Context #2 | Noun

fear

A feeling of fear or concern about something bad happening.

Synonyms

anxiety, apprehension, dismay.

Examples of usage

  • She felt a sense of alarm when she heard the news.
  • The growing crime rate is causing alarm among the residents.
Context #3 | Verb

alert

To cause someone to feel fear or concern.

Synonyms

frighten, startle, worry.

Examples of usage

  • The sudden noise alarmed the neighbors.
  • The strange behavior of the dog alarmed the owner.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The first mechanical alarms were created in the 17th century, often used in households to wake up individuals.
  • During the Industrial Revolution, alarms evolved into systems that detected fire and theft, changing how people ensured their safety.

Technology

  • Modern alarms use various technologies, including sensors and smart devices, allowing you to manage them via your phone.
  • Some alarms now also have features that alert you visually, not just audibly, helping people with hearing impairments.

Psychology

  • Research shows that waking up to a gentle sound can lower stress compared to sudden, loud alarms.
  • Alarms can create varying emotional responses, from relief when they signal safety to anxiety when they indicate danger.

Pop Culture

  • Alarms have become iconic in movies, often signaling important moments, such as a character being in danger or needing to act quickly.
  • Songs and media often reference alarms, using their sounds metaphorically to signify urgency or awakening to reality.

Origin of 'alarm'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'alarm' comes from the Italian 'all'arme,' meaning 'to arms' or 'to alert,' reflecting its original purpose of warning.
  • In the 14th century, it started being used in English to describe a call to action when danger was near.

The word "alarm" originated from the Italian word "all'arme", which means "to arms". It was initially used in military contexts to warn soldiers of approaching enemies. Over time, the term evolved to include general alerts and warnings in various situations, such as fire alarms, burglar alarms, and alarm clocks.

See also: alarmed, alarming, alarmingly, alarms.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,636, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.