alarming

[ uh-lahr-ming ]

adjective

1. causing alarm or fear:

   an alarming case of pneumonia; an alarming lack of respect.

Other Words From

• a·larming·ly adverb
• una·larming adjective
• una·larming·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of alarming¹

First recorded in 1670–80; alarm + -ing ²

Example Sentences

For those of us immersed in this research, the election results may be disappointing and alarming, but it’s not like we didn’t see it coming.

From Salon

"It's alarming that it can lead to this and there's potentially hundreds or thousands of people now landing criminal records for such a minor offence," she added.

From BBC

Customers of the firm describe the situation as "very alarming" and say they want answers about what has happened to their "most personal information".

From BBC

He also admitted repeatedly tracking her movements and sending messages of an alarming and distressing nature.

From BBC

Scientists say there has been an alarming lack of progress in saving nature as the UN biodiversity summit, COP 16, draws to a close.

From BBC

Related Words

• dangerous
• disquieting
• distressing
• disturbing
• frightening
• startling