fire alarm

American  

noun

1. a signal that warns that a fire has started.

2. a bell, buzzer, siren, horn, etc., that provides such a signal.

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fire alarm British  

noun

1. a device to give warning of fire, esp a bell, siren, or hooter

2. a shout to warn that a fire has broken out

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Etymology

Origin of fire alarm

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Example Sentences

New cruise ships take a test run to make sure everything runs as planned—from fire alarms to açaí bowls.

From The Wall Street Journal

And throughout the complex, home to nearly 5,000 people, fire-department officials and residents said that fire alarms weren’t properly functioning.

From The Wall Street Journal

Several residents have said they did not hear a fire alarm when the fire broke out.

From BBC

Several residents have revealed in interviews that the fire alarm did not sound when the fire broke out.

From BBC

Anger has been building on social media, especially after several residents revealed in interviews that they did not hear a fire alarm when the fire broke out.

From BBC

Related Words

• smoke alarm
• sprinkler system