Definition

1. Noun:
   • A signaling device that makes a buzzing sound: A small electrical or mechanical device that produces a continuous or intermittent buzzing noise, typically used as a signal or alarm.
   • A push button at an outer door that gives a ringing or buzzing signal when pushed: Specifically, the button at an entrance to a building which, when pressed, activates a buzzer or bell inside to alert occupants.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Signaling Device):
  • The game show contestant pressed the buzzer to answer the question.
  • A loud buzzer signaled the end of the work shift.
• Noun (Door Button):
  • Please ring the buzzer for apartment 3B.
  • I pressed the buzzer at the gate, but no one answered.

Advanced Usage

• "To beat the buzzer": To complete an action just before a deadline or time limit expires, originating from sports or game shows.
  • He submitted his report at 4:59 PM, beating the buzzer by one minute.
• "Buzzer-beater" (noun): A shot in basketball made just before the game clock expires and the buzzer sounds.
  • The crowd erupted after the incredible buzzer-beater won the game.

Variants and Related Words

• Buzz (verb/noun): To make a low, continuous humming sound; the sound itself.
  • The bees buzz around the flowers.
• Buzzing (adjective/gerund): Making a buzz; figuratively, full of excited activity or talk.
  • The room was buzzing with conversation.

Synonyms

• Signal: A device or sound conveying information or an instruction.
• Bell: A device that makes a ringing sound, often used similarly.
• Alarm: A device that signals danger or a problem.

Related Phrases

• On the buzzer: Exactly when a time period ends; at the last possible moment.
  • The goal was scored right on the buzzer.
• Buzzer sound: The specific noise produced by a buzzer.
  • The familiar buzzer sound indicated the microwave had finished.

Noun

1. a signaling device that makes a buzzing sound
2. a push button at an outer door that gives a ringing or buzzing signal when pushed