n. & v.
--n.
1. a warning of danger etc. (gave the alarm).
2 a a warning sound or device (the burglar alarm was set off accidentally). b alarm clock.
3 frightened expectation of danger or difficulty (were filled with alarm).
--v.tr.
1. frighten or disturb.
2 arouse to a sense of danger.
Phrases and idioms:
alarm clock a clock with a device that can be made to sound at the time set in advance.
Etymology: ME f. OF alarme f. It. allarme f. all' arme! to arms