a⋅lert /əˈlɜrt/ [uh-lurt]
–adjective
1. fully aware and attentive; wide-awake; keen: an alert mind.
2. swift; agile; nimble.
–noun
3. an attitude of vigilance, readiness, or caution, as before an expected attack.
4. a warning or alarm of an impending military attack, a storm, etc.: We'd just boarded the bus when the alert sounded.
5. the period during which such a warning or alarm is in effect.
–verb (used with object)
6. to warn (troops, ships, etc.) to prepare for action.
7. to warn of an impending raid, attack, storm, etc.: The radio alerted coastal residents to prepare for the hurricane.
8. to advise or warn; cause to be on guard: to alert gardeners to the dangers of some pesticides.
-Idiom
9. on the alert, on guard against danger; in readiness; vigilant: The state police are on the alert for an escaped convict believed to be in the area.
Synonyms:
1. awake, wary, observant. Alert, vigilant, watchful imply a wide-awake attitude, as of someone keenly aware of his or her surroundings. Alert describes a ready and prompt attentiveness together with a quick intelligence: The tourist was alert and eager to see the sights. Vigilant suggests some immediate necessity for keen, active observation, and for continuing alertness: Knowing the danger, the scout was unceasingly vigilant. Watchful suggests carefulness and preparedness: watchful waiting. 2. brisk, lively, quick, active, sprightly, spirited.
