early-warning system
noun
a network of radar installations designed to detect enemy aircraft or missiles in time for the effective deployment of defense systems.
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early-warning system
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early warning system
early warning systemnouna network of radar and communications units intended to detect at the earliest possible moment an attack by enemy aircraft or missiles
early-warning system
American
[ur-lee wawr-ning]
/ ˈɜr li ˈwɔr nɪŋ /
noun
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Military. a network of radar installations designed to detect enemy aircraft or missiles in time for the effective deployment of defense systems.
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any series of steps established to spot potential problems.
early warning system
British
noun
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a network of radar and communications units intended to detect at the earliest possible moment an attack by enemy aircraft or missiles
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anything that gives advance notice of something
Etymology
Origin of early-warning system
First recorded in 1945–50
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
Part of a workers’ camp was swept away and an early-warning system failed, prompting officials to fix it.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 9, 2026
Rinz’s research points to an early-warning system that may flag trouble ahead.
From Barron's ● May 22, 2026
The families will call for an early-warning system that would allow parents and whistleblowers to report concerns in early-years settings to an independent external body.
From BBC ● Mar. 2, 2026
California’s earthquake early-warning system is getting a seismic upgrade, one that will allow residents to receive more timely alerts about shaking from an incoming megaquake.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 5, 2024
Ghohg had installed his own magical early-warning system: long, monstrous nerves that snaked through the hills and would jolt when a distant guard stomped on the other end.
From "The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge" by M.T. Anderson and Eugene Yelchin
Rubio said he could not comment on the incident, adding: "I know a few nights ago there was a software problem involving their early warning system."
From BBC ● Oct. 19, 2026
Work is similarly under way to improve Europe's early warning system with plans under discussion including reinforcing the mandate of the bloc's border agency Frontex to conduct social media monitoring.
From Barron's ● Oct. 1, 2026
The USGS’ earthquake early warning system was activated, reaching cellphones in the San Francisco Bay Area.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 24, 2026
She explains that investor buying and selling serves as an early warning system for a fund’s future.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 4, 2026
Some were also confused by a glitch in the earthquake early warning system.
From "Meltdown" by Deirdre Langeland
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