— alertly , adv. — alertness , n.
/euh lerrt"/ , adj.
1. fully aware and attentive; wide-awake; keen: an alert mind.
2. swift; agile; nimble.
n.
3. an attitude of vigilance, readiness, or caution, as before an expected attack.
4. a warning or alarm of an impending military attack, a storm, etc.: We'd just boarded the bus when the alert sounded.
5. the period during which such a warning or alarm is in effect.
6. on the alert , on guard against danger; in readiness; vigilant: The state police are on the alert for an escaped convict believed to be in the area.
v.t.
7. to warn (troops, ships, etc.) to prepare for action.
8. to warn of an impending raid, attack, storm, etc.: The radio alerted coastal residents to prepare for the hurricane.
9. to advise or warn; cause to be on guard: to alert gardeners to the dangers of some pesticides.
[ 1590-1600; 1940-45 for def. 4; all'erta, equiv. to all ( a ) to, on the + erta lookout, watchtower, orig. fem. of erto, ptp. of ergere erigere to ERECT ]
Syn. 1. awake, wary, observant. ALERT, VIGILANT, WATCHFUL imply a wide-awake attitude, as of someone keenly aware of his or her surroundings. ALERT describes a ready and prompt attentiveness together with a quick intelligence: The tourist was alert and eager to see the sights. VIGILANT suggests some immediate necessity for keen, active observation, and for continuing alertness: Knowing the danger, the scout was unceasingly vigilant. WATCHFUL suggests carefulness and preparedness: watchful waiting. 2. brisk, lively, quick, active, sprightly, spirited.
Ant. 1. unaware.