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

On Sunday Pitino’s fifth-seeded, 30-6 St. John’s eked out a 67-65 buzzer beater over fourth-seed Kansas.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 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

Mathurin missed a three-point attempt to win the game at the buzzer.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 23, 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