Reading Theme:
Alarm: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：warning device (alarm)
alarm
/əˈlɑːm/
n.
A device that makes a loud noise to warn people of danger or wake them up.
warning device
➕
/ˈwɔːnɪŋ dɪˈvaɪs/
n.
A physical object, often electronic, designed to produce a sound, light, or other signal to alert people to a specific event, such as danger or a preset time.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Old French 'alarme', from Italian 'all'arme' (to arms). 'Al-' (to) + '-arm' (weapon).
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a crowd shouting 'All arms on deck!' when the alarm sounds, prompting everyone to prepare for action.
📖 Example
I need to set the alarm on my phone for 7 AM tomorrow so I don't miss my train.
A reminder to activate the time-keeping alert function on a personal device for a future appointment.
🔗 Collocations
set the alarm – To activate or program an alarm device.
alarm goes off – When an alarm starts ringing or sounding.
false alarm – A warning signal that turns out to be unnecessary.
🔄 Synonyms
alert (n.) – A signal or warning of danger.
siren (n.) – A loud device used to warn people, often on emergency vehicles.
alarm clock (n.) – A specific device that makes a noise to wake someone up.
🚫 Antonyms
lullaby (n.) – A quiet, soothing song intended to cause sleep, the opposite function of a waking alarm.
🌱 Derivatives
alarmist (n./adj.) – A person who spreads unnecessary fear; causing needless alarm.
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from the Italian military shout 'all'arme!', meaning 'to arms!'. It entered English via Old French, initially signifying a call to battle. Over time, its meaning broadened to signify any warning signal, eventually becoming a device and a feeling of apprehension.
Meaning 2：sudden fear (alarm)
alarm
/əˈlɑːm/
n.
A sudden feeling of fear or worry that something bad is happening.
sudden fear
➕
/ˈsʌdn fɪə/
n.
A sudden, strong feeling of anxiety, worry, or fright caused by the perception of impending danger or trouble.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The news of the sudden storm caused great alarm among the people living near the coast.
A report of unexpected severe weather generated widespread fear in a coastal community.
🔗 Collocations
cause alarm – To make people feel worried or frightened.
sense of alarm – The feeling of being alarmed.
alarm bells ring – An idiom meaning to feel that something is wrong or dangerous.
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
calm (n.) – A state of peace and quiet, free from agitation or strong emotion.
🌱 Derivatives
alarming (adj.) – Causing worry or fear.
Wordbook
Your data is saved in this browser