Definition of Alarm
Quick Meaning of Alarm
A sound or signal that warns you about danger or wakes you up at a specific time.
Detailed Definition of Alarm
A device or sound that alerts people to danger or wakes them at a set time.
How to Pronounce Alarm
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Two syllables: a-LARM. Stress on the second syllable. The 'a' at the start is schwa (unstressed, short). The second part rhymes with 'charm'.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced with stress on the first syllable (AL-arm); the stress belongs on the second syllable (a-LARM).
Origin and Etymology of Alarm
From Italian 'all'arme' (to arms), literally meaning to arms, used as a battle cry; later meaning warning sound.
How to Use Alarm in a Sentence
Each example shows “alarm” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“My alarm went off at 6 o'clock this morning.”
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“The fire alarm rang loudly when the kitchen caught fire.”
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“Modern security systems include motion-activated alarms integrated with smartphone notifications.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Alarm
Common Synonyms for Alarm
Smart Synonyms for Alarm — When to Use Each
- siren
- for a loud emergency warning sound system
- alert
- for general warning or notification of danger
Common Collocations with Alarm
These phrases pair with “alarm” in everyday English:
- set an alarm
- alarm goes off
- fire alarm
- car alarm
- alarm clock
Common Mistakes When Using Alarm
Even fluent speakers slip up with “alarm”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I forgot to set my alarm yesterday, so I woke up lately.
- ✓ Correct: I forgot to set my alarm yesterday, so I woke up late.
- Why: 'Late' (adjective) describes when something happens; 'lately' (adverb) means recently—use 'late' for time of waking.
- ✗ Wrong: The alarm sound was very alarmed.
- ✓ Correct: The alarm sound was very alarming.
- Why: 'Alarmed' is an adjective meaning scared or worried; 'alarming' describes something that causes alarm.
Other Forms of Alarm
- Noun: alarm
- Verb: alarm
- Adjective: alarming
- Adverb: alarmingly
Frequently Asked Questions About Alarm
What is the meaning of "Alarm"?
A sound or signal that warns you about danger or wakes you up at a specific time.
How do you pronounce "Alarm"?
The IPA is /əˈlɑːrm/. Two syllables: a-LARM. Stress on the second syllable. The 'a' at the start is schwa (unstressed, short). The second part rhymes with 'charm'.
What part of speech is "Alarm"?
"Alarm" is a noun at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Alarm"?
Common synonyms include bell, siren, alert.
How do you use "Alarm" in a sentence?
For example: "My alarm went off at 6 o'clock this morning."