buzzer

buzz-er · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An electrical device that makes a buzzing sound as a signal or alarm.

  2. 2.

    A device used to signal the end of a period in sports.

  3. 3.

    [informal]A telephone.

Forms

plural: buzzers

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    at the buzzer — At the very last moment (from basketball).
  • •
    buzzer-beater — A shot made just as time expires.

Related words

See also: alarm, bell, buzz, signal
Synonyms: alarm, bell, signal

Etymology

From buzz + -er (agent/instrument suffix). First attested in the mid-19th century.