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Alarms: meaning, definitions and examples

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alarms

 

[ əˈlɑːmz ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

set off

A loud noise or signal that indicates a warning or danger, typically used to wake someone up or alert them to a potential threat.

Synonyms

alert, signal, siren, warning

Examples of usage

  • The fire alarm went off in the middle of the night.
  • She set multiple alarms to ensure she woke up on time.
  • The car alarm scared off the thief.
  • We heard the alarm bells ringing in the distance.
  • I always hit the snooze button when my alarm goes off.
Context #2 | Noun

security system

A system designed to detect and warn of intruders or unauthorized entry into a building or area.

Synonyms

burglar alarm, intruder alert, security system

Examples of usage

  • The office building is equipped with a state-of-the-art alarm system.
  • The alarm was triggered when someone tried to break in.
  • He quickly deactivated the alarm code before entering the building.
Context #3 | Verb

cause fear or anxiety

To cause someone to feel fear, distress, or anxiety.

Synonyms

concern, disturb, frighten, worry

Examples of usage

  • The news of the impending storm alarmed the residents.
  • His sudden disappearance alarmed his family and friends.
  • She was alarmed by the strange noises coming from the basement.

Translations

Translations of the word "alarms" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alarmes

🇮🇳 अलार्म

🇩🇪 Alarme

🇮🇩 alarm

🇺🇦 сигнали тривоги

🇵🇱 alarmy

🇯🇵 アラーム

🇫🇷 alarmes

🇪🇸 alarmas

🇹🇷 alarmlar

🇰🇷 알람

🇸🇦 إنذارات

🇨🇿 alarmy

🇸🇰 alarmy

🇨🇳 警报

🇸🇮 alarme

🇮🇸 viðvaranir

🇰🇿 дабылдар

🇬🇪 სიგნალები

🇦🇿 siqnallar

🇲🇽 alarmas

Etymology

The word 'alarm' originated from the Old French 'alarme' in the late 14th century, meaning 'a call to arms'. It was used in the context of military signals to warn of approaching enemies. Over time, the term evolved to also encompass warning signals for various types of dangers, such as fires or intruders. Today, 'alarm' is commonly associated with alerting individuals to potential threats or emergencies through sound or visual signals.

See also: alarm, alarmed, alarming, alarmingly.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,392, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.