buzzer

[ buhz-er ]

noun

1. a person or thing that buzzes.
2. a signaling apparatus similar to an electric bell but without hammer or gong, producing a buzzing sound by the vibration of an armature.

buzzer

/ ˈbʌzə /

noun

1. a person or thing that buzzes
2. a device that produces a buzzing sound, esp one similar to an electric bell without a hammer or gong
3. a wood planing machine

Word History and Origins

Origin of buzzer¹

First recorded in 1600–10; buzz + -er ¹

Example Sentences

He launched a three-pointer from the top right of the arc that swished through as the buzzer sounded.

From Washington Post

She sends another message before the final buzzer so it’s already there when he checks his phone in the locker room.

From Washington Post

The Terps never led in the first half but entered intermission trailing just 46-44 after Scott’s three-pointer six seconds before the buzzer.

From Washington Post

They beat the buzzer, but it still meant they were out of time.

From Washington Post

Then, when the final buzzer sounds, both teams honor one another’s efforts, demonstrating the enduring power of sportsmanship.

From Washington Post

On the second floor I rang a buzzer at the door of the detective bureau.

From The Daily Beast

Never mind the word "bazaar," which you pronounce as "bizarre" and Hassan pronounces as "buzzer."

From The Daily Beast

When the buzzer sounded, the score was Wyoming Indian 69, Rocky Mountain 53 and the fans poured out on to the court.

From The Daily Beast

Getting the buzzer down is probably the most important part.

From The Daily Beast

The Soviets put the ball in play, made a wild shot at the basket, and the buzzer went off.

From The Daily Beast

One satisfactory way is by the use of a miniature buzzer transmitter.

From Project Gutenberg

Another hour, and a rising hum from a buzzer beside him gave warning of approach to the destination he had fixed.

From Project Gutenberg

The buzzer which he had expected to roar in his ears was only a faint drone, and above it he could easily hear other sounds.

From Project Gutenberg

He joined them at dinner when the great buzzer told half a county that it was half-past twelve.

From Project Gutenberg

If the armature and its connections are also used from the buzzer, the height of the coils must be taken in consideration.

From Project Gutenberg