The word “alarmed” has become a common term in our everyday language, but what does it really mean? This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the definition and meaning of alarmed, as well as its origin, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines alarmed as “feeling a sense of danger, urgency, or concern.” It can also mean to warn or notify someone of danger, as in “the fire alarm alarmed the building occupants.”
Origin
The word alarmed comes from the Middle French word “alarmer,” which means “to fill with alarm or apprehension.” It was first used in English in the late 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford Dictionary, alarmed means “feeling frightened or worried.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “feeling frightened or worried that something unpleasant or dangerous might happen.”
Associations
The word alarmed is often associated with danger, fear, and urgency. It can be used to describe a person’s emotional state or a situation that requires immediate attention.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for alarmed include fearful, apprehensive, anxious, nervous, and uneasy.
Antonyms
Antonyms for alarmed include calm, composed, relaxed, and tranquil.
The same root words
The word alarmed shares the same root words as the words alarm, alarming, and alarmist. These words all come from the Latin word “alarmare,” which means “to arouse.”
Example Sentences
- She was alarmed to hear that her flight had been cancelled.
- The loud noise of the car crash alarmed the nearby residents.
- The doctor’s report was alarming, and she immediately scheduled a follow-up appointment.
- He was an alarmist, always predicting the worst-case scenario and causing unnecessary panic.
- Despite the alarming news, she remained calm and focused on finding a solution.