buzzer

UK: ˈbʌzə | US: ˈbʌzər

Definition
  1. n. a device that makes a buzzing sound as a signal

  2. n. (slang) a doorbell or alarm

  3. n. (sports) a signaling device used in games (e.g., hockey)

Structure
buzz <imitating sound>er <noun suffix indicating agent or device>
Etymology

The word "buzzer" derives from the onomatopoeic verb "buzz," which mimics the sound of insects or machinery. The suffix "-er" transforms it into a noun denoting a device that produces such a sound. First recorded in the early 19th century, it originally described mechanical signaling devices and later expanded to include electronic alarms and sports equipment.

Examples

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