Definition

1. Noun:
   • A device that warns of fire: A fire alarm is a system or device designed to detect and alert people to the presence of fire, smoke, or high heat, typically through loud sounds and flashing lights.
   • The signal or warning itself: A fire alarm is also the audible or visual signal (like a siren, bell, or shout) that indicates a fire has broken out and prompts evacuation.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The fire alarm in our building is tested every month. (The warning device in our building undergoes regular checks.)
  • When someone shouted "Fire!", it acted as a fire alarm, and everyone ran for the exits. (The shout served as the warning signal for the fire.)

Advanced Usage

• "to set off the fire alarm": to activate the alarm, either accidentally or intentionally.
  • Pulling the emergency lever will set off the fire alarm.
• "fire alarm system": the complete network of devices (detectors, alarms, control panels) designed to warn of fire.
  • The new office building has a state-of-the-art fire alarm system.

Variants and Related Words

• Fire detector / Smoke detector (n): A specific component of a fire alarm system that senses smoke or heat.
• Alarm (n): A general warning of danger.
• Evacuation signal (n): A signal, which may be a fire alarm, instructing people to leave a building.

Synonyms

• Fire signal: A warning sign indicating fire.
• Alert (for fire): A notification of fire danger.

Related Phrases

• False alarm: A situation where the fire alarm is activated without the presence of a real fire.
  • The burnt toast caused a false alarm in the dormitory.
• Fire drill: A practice exercise for evacuating a building, often involving the fire alarm.
  • During the fire drill, the fire alarm will sound for two minutes.

Related Idioms

• A wake-up call: (Figuratively) An event that warns you of a dangerous situation and prompts you to take action. While not specific to fire, it shares the concept of a warning.
  • The minor electrical fault was a wake-up call to update the old fire alarm.

Noun

1. an alarm that is tripped off by fire or smoke
2. a shout or bell to warn that fire has broken out