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

But his condition worsened and the inquiry heard that his mother Caitlin Donald pressed the emergency buzzer as Archie had stopped breathing.

From BBC • May 5, 2026

My neighborhood barber, who quietly says “Bismillah,” meaning “in the name of God,” before putting the buzzer to my head, is keenly aware of this.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

The game went to overtime after Denver guard Jamal Murray’s half-court prayer bounced off the backboard at the buzzer.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 15, 2026

Winn’s free throws put Sylmar up by seven with 14 seconds remaining and he made a layup at the buzzer.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 28, 2026

Then he placed buttons to sound the buzzer at every vantage point where trouble might first be spotted.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom