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

The buzzer, coach yelling, people cheering, whistles blowing.

From Literature

With four seconds left, Clemson’s Mia Moore rushed down the court, hit a wild shot and seemingly drew a foul at the buzzer.

From Los Angeles Times

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

Get him to put a buzzer in every room with a door or a window on the street.

From Literature

And the buzzer goes off, and the race begins.

From Literature