buzzer

American  

[buhz-er] / ˈbʌz ər /

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.

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buzzer British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of buzzer

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

Example Sentences

At the east London block of flats which we believed was the home of the former member of Epstein's household staff, we pressed the buzzer and asked for her.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

And about that three-point game: If it were made today, West’s ludicrous, better-than-half-court shot at the buzzer in the third game of the 1970 finals would simply win the contest, not send it into overtime.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Jarrett Allen scored 27 points and pulled down 11 rebounds for Cleveland, but his last-gasp effort that would have forced overtime was ruled to have left his hand after the buzzer.

From Barron's • Feb. 26, 2026

When longtime announcer Don Pardo asks Kroeger’s milquetoast contender, “When is the next reappearance of Halley’s Comet scheduled?” a buzzer instantly cuts him off.

From Salon • Feb. 22, 2026

I can barely hear the buzzer that indicates that my three minutes are up.

From "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins