fire alarm

noun

1. a signal that warns that a fire has started.
2. a bell, buzzer, siren, horn, etc., that provides such a signal.

fire alarm

noun

1. a device to give warning of fire, esp a bell, siren, or hooter
2. a shout to warn that a fire has broken out

Word History and Origins

Origin of fire alarm¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Example Sentences

After TSA notified residents in August of an impending 7% rent increase, nearly 40 tenants emailed letters protesting the rent spike and airing grievances, including malfunctioning fire alarms and elevator breakdowns.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Brown said he also heard “a few beeps” on the fire alarm.

From BBC

The family of five had gone to bed when a fire alarm activated in their house at about 21:40 BST.

From BBC

Some residents couldn’t hear a fire alarm and like those at Grenfell had to decide to stay put or get out.

From BBC

During the violence 22 staff in the hotel barricaded themselves into the hotel's panic room while more than 200 asylum seekers were trapped inside the building, despite automated fire alarms telling them to leave.

From BBC

Related Words

• smoke alarm
• sprinkler system