alarm

[from the Italian all'armi!]

An apprehension from sudden noise or report. The drum or signal by which men are summoned to stand on their guard in time of danger.

♦ False alarm is sometimes occasioned by a timid or negligent sentry, and at others designedly by an officer, to ascertain the promptness of his men. Sometimes false alarms are given by the enemy to harass the adversary. Old Rider defines alarm as a "watch-word shewing the neernesse of the enemies."

The Sailor's Word-Book

← aland × alarum →

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The Sailor's Word-Book
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The Sailor's Word-Book