Alarmed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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alarmed
[əˈlɑːmd ]
Definitions
feeling of fear or anxiety
Feeling fear or anxiety about something. It can be a sudden feeling of fear or worry that something bad is going to happen.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| alarmed |
Use this word when someone is suddenly and strongly disturbed by something unexpected or potentially dangerous.
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| worried |
Appropriate for general or unspecified discomfort about something that might happen in the future. It's a more common and less intense form of 'anxious'.
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| concerned |
Use this word when someone is worried about a problem or situation, often involving someone else's well-being. It's generally less intense than 'anxious'.
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| anxious |
This term is best used to describe a state of unease or worry about something with an uncertain outcome. It often suggests a prolonged state of worry.
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Examples of usage
- I was alarmed by the sudden loud noise.
- She was alarmed by the news of the approaching storm.
- The alarm in her voice made me realize the seriousness of the situation.
to cause fear or anxiety
To cause fear or anxiety in someone. It can be to warn someone of impending danger or to surprise someone with unexpected news.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| alarmed |
Best used when someone is suddenly made aware of a danger or problem that causes worry or fear. It is often related to immediate reactions to unexpected situations.
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| frighten |
Used when causing someone to feel afraid or scared, often related to threats, dangers, or sudden movements. It usually has a direct impact on the person's sense of safety.
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| scare |
Similar to 'frighten,' but can also be used in more casual or playful contexts. It can refer to something or someone causing fear or concern, often unexpectedly.
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| disturb |
Typically used when somebody is upset or uncomfortable due to interference, disruption, or troubling news. It can be related to sleep, peace, or concentration.
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Examples of usage
- The sudden appearance of the stranger alarmed the children.
- He was alarmed by the sight of the dark figure in the alley.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling alarmed can trigger the 'fight or flight' response, making our heart race and preparing our body to react.
- An alarming situation can lead to heightened awareness, allowing people to respond quickly in emergencies.
Pop Culture
- Many suspenseful movies use sudden sounds or scenes to create alarm, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
- Songs often use themes of surprise and alarm to convey feelings of heartbreak or unexpected changes in life.
Health
- Chronic feelings of alarm or anxiety can affect your health, leading to issues like stress or insomnia.
- Practicing relaxation techniques can help manage feelings of alarm and maintain emotional well-being.
Literature
- In literature, characters often feel alarmed to heighten drama or tension, revealing their inner fears.
- Classic novels often describe alarming scenarios that lead to character development and plot twists.
Origin of 'alarmed'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Italian phrase 'all'arme', meaning 'to arms', which was a call to be ready for danger.
- Originally used as a military term, its meaning later expanded to general feelings of fear or concern.
The word 'alarmed' originated from the Latin word 'alarmare', which means to arouse, excite, or warn. Over time, the meaning of 'alarmed' evolved to include feelings of fear or anxiety. The use of 'alarmed' in English dates back to the 16th century.
See also: alarm, alarming, alarmingly, alarms.