alarm clock

American  

noun

1. a clock with a bell or buzzer that can be set to sound at a particular time, as to awaken someone.

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alarm clock British  

noun

1. a clock with a mechanism that sounds at a set time: used esp for waking a person up

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Etymology

Origin of alarm clock

First recorded in 1690–1700

Example Sentences

Gifts here should improve daily life: nicer linens, a staycation, or an upgraded alarm clock to make hitting snooze more pleasant.

From The Wall Street Journal

I glance at the little digital alarm clock set on the nightstand between our beds; it’s two in the morning.

From Literature

If it’s too dark when you get up, especially in the winter, use a light box or an alarm clock like the Hatch Restore 3, which slowly lights up to ease you out of slumber.

From The Wall Street Journal

Retailers Currys and John Lewis also said they had seen retro gadgets making a comeback with sales of radios, instant cameras and alarm clocks showing big jumps.

From BBC

The metal ring adds minimal weight when attached and allows the phone to stand in portrait or landscape modes—perfect for reading, watching videos, and propping up the phone as a bedside alarm clock.

From Barron's

Related Words

• clock radio