Alert
/əˈlɜːrt/
Definitions
3 meaningsWatchful, attentive, and quick to notice.
/əˈlɜːrt/
Quick to notice and react to danger or opportunity
The guard dog was alert to any unusual sounds.
💡 Simply: Paying close attention.
More Examples
She remained alert throughout the long meeting.
How It's Used
"The soldiers remained alert throughout the night."
"Stay alert while driving in heavy traffic."
To warn or make someone aware of danger.
/əˈlɜːrt/
To warn someone of danger
The doctor alerted the patient to the risks of surgery.
💡 Simply: To warn someone.
More Examples
The siren alerted everyone to the danger.
How It's Used
"The police alerted the residents to the impending storm."
A warning signal or announcement.
/əˈlɜːrt/
A warning signal or system
The fire alarm was a loud alert.
💡 Simply: A warning message.
More Examples
He received an email alert about his bank account.
How It's Used
"The system sends an alert when there's a security breach."
Idioms & expressions
on high alert
In a state of heightened readiness and watchfulness.
"The troops were on high alert during the conflict."
From Middle English *alere, from Old French alerte, from alerter 'to make alert, arouse', ultimately of Germanic origin.
The word's use in military contexts has a long history, reflecting its association with preparedness and vigilance.
Memory tip
Think of an alarm clock ALERTING you to wake up.