alarums and excursions origin

word histories

“ad fontes!”

meaning and origin of the phrase ‘alarums and excursions’

The phrase alarums and excursions , also alarms and excursions , denotes confused activity and uproar .

The noun alarum is an archaic form of alarm , meaning a call to arms (the vowel between -r- and -m- in alarum perhaps arose from rolling of the -r- in the final syllable of the call).

The noun excursion denotes a sortie , i.e. an attack made by troops coming out from a position of defence.

The phrase alarums and excursions is an allusion to the frequent collocation of the words alarum (also occasionally alarm ) and excursion in stage directions in battle scenes in a number of plays by the English poet and dramatist William Shakespeare (1564-1616)—although neither alarums and excursions nor alarms and excursions appear in Shakespeare’s plays.

For example, the stage directions are as follows at the beginning of Act V, scene 3, of The history of Henrie the fourth [Part 1] (Quarto 1, 1598):

Alarme, excursions. Enter the King, the Prince, Lord Iohn of Lancaster, Earle of Westmerland.

But, at the beginning of Act V, scene 3, of The First Part of Henry the Fourth (Folio 1, 1623), the stage directions are:

Alarum, excursions, enter the King, the Prince, Lord Iohn of Lancaster, and Earle of Westmerland.

The phrase is first recorded—in its military acceptation and in the form alarms and excursions —in The Siege against Lathom House in the year 1643 , published in The European Magazine , and London Review ( London , England) of February 1793. This text was presented as the transcription of a handwritten diary of the siege of the Royalist stronghold of Lathom House, in Lancashire , by a Parliamentarian army during the English Civil War (1642-49):

21st, 22d, 23d, and 24th. The four following days were spent in alarms and excursions without much business of service.

The earliest instance of the phrase that I have found is from an article published in The Waterford Mail (Waterford, County Waterford, Ireland ) of Wednesday 17 th February 1830; the author likens to a Shakespearean drama the political scheming in the designation of the candidate in a legislative election:

Thus ends Act the Second. The third and concluding portion of the drama opens with confusion, and ends, like Shakespeare’s Historical Tragedies, with “Alarms and Excursions.”

The second-earliest occurrence of the phrase that I have found appears in a military context; it is from The Northern Whig (Belfast, County Antrim, Ireland ) of Saturday 14 th September 1839:

The War in Spain.—Foreign Policy of the Present Ministry.—The Spanish war is nearly at an end. That contest, which has existed for several years, with various success—which has desolated several of the finest provinces of Spain —impoverished her people—spilled, like water, the blood of thousands of her children, has come to a close,—more from mere exhaustion, on the part of the combatants, than from any great or decided advantage gained by one side over the other. It has been a remarkable feature of this civil war, that scarcely any thing approaching to a pitched battle or a regular siege has taken place. We have had “alarums and excursions,” surprises, desolations, massacres, and butcheries of prisoners, in multitudes; but little or nothing of what we may term war on a grand scale.

I have found another early instance of the phrase in the following from The Morning Chronicle (London, England) of Saturday 7 th April 1849:

Autres temps, autres mœurs * . It is clear that the spirit of the gallant Lord George no longer prevails in the Protectionist councils. No more storming of windmills—no more challenging of recumbent lions —no more adventurous descents into the bottomless pit of statistics. The good knight , vowed to the immaculate reputation of Mr. Canning, has disappeared, and with him the policy of alarms and excursions. A Protectionist campaign is now an affair as stately as a minuet.

* The French phrase autres temps, autres mœurs , literally other times, other customs , is a translation of the Latin o tempora o mores , literally oh the times oh the customs , used by the Roman statesman, orator and author Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 BC) in First Oration against Catiline ( Oratio in Catilinam Prima ), in which Cicero accused Lucius Sergius Catilina (circa 108-62 BC) of leading a plot to overthrow the Roman government.

Share this:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

‘Alarums And Excursions’, Meaning & Context

Amidst the vast tapestry of English language, certain phrases stand out, their origins shrouded in time, their meanings ripe with history, their usage a testament to their enduring relevance. One such phrase is “alarums and excursions,” a term that captures the essence of sudden commotion, unexpected disturbances, and the whirlwind of emotions that accompany such disruptions. Its roots lie deep in the realm of theatre, where it served as a dramatic device to heighten tension and transport audiences into the heart of conflict.

Origin of Alarums and Excursions

While the phrase “alarums and excursions” is most famously associated with William Shakespeare, its roots in theatre extend beyond his works. The term appears in various plays and dramatic works prior to Shakespeare, reflecting the use of sounds and sudden movements to create dramatic tension and heighten the audience’s engagement.

In Elizabethan theatre, the phrase was employed to evoke the din of battle, the clamour of crowds, or the tumult of a storm. These auditory and visual cues were essential to the performance, as they helped to take the audience right into the action.

The use of “alarums and excursions” continued to evolve throughout the history of theatre, often taking on symbolic or metaphorical significance. In some instances, the phrase served to represent the internal turmoil of a character, the chaos of their thoughts and emotions. In other cases, it signified a sudden shift in the play’s plot, a turning point that would propel the story forward.

The Shakespeare Connection

The phrase “alarums and excursions” finds its earliest recorded usage in the works of William Shakespeare, a literary titan who wielded language with masterful precision. In his play Henry V , the phrase appears as a stage instruction accompanying the battle scene . As he rallies his troops, Henry evokes the spirit of bravery and camaraderie, urging them to embrace the chaos of battle. In this context, “alarums and excursions” refers to the sounds of battle – the clash of swords, the cries of soldiers, the thunder of cannons – and the chaotic movements of troops engaged in combat. It paints a vivid picture of the battlefield, a place of sudden violence and unpredictable turns of events.

General Application of the Term “Alarums and Excursions”

Beyond its literal meaning, “alarums and excursions” carries a broader significance. It speaks of the unexpected disruptions that life throws our way, the sudden upheavals that challenge our equilibrium and force us to confront the unknown. It captures the sense of disorientation and uncertainty that accompanies such events, as we grapple with the sudden shift in our reality.

Today, it is often used in a lighthearted or humorous way to describe any unexpected disturbance, a sudden disruption to the routine of life. For instance, one might describe a child’s tantrum as an “alarm and excursion,” or the sudden appearance of an unexpected guest as an “alarum and excursion.”

The enduring popularity of this phrase speaks to its ability to capture a universal human experience: the sense of disruption, the unexpected turn of events, and the challenge of navigating the chaos that life sometimes throws our way. In a world of constant change and uncertainty, “alarums and excursions” reminds us that life is full of surprises, both pleasant and unpleasant, and that our ability to adapt and respond to these disruptions is a testament to our resilience as human beings.

Alarums and excursions

Terms With a Similar Meaning

• Much Ado – fuss, commotion, or excitement
• Ballyhoo – excessive publicity or promotion
• Bobbery – a noisy disturbance or quarrel
• Bother – to cause worry or trouble
• Bustle – hurried activity or movement
• Clatter – a loud, confused noise
• Commotion – a state of confused and noisy disturbance
• Furor – a sudden outbreak of violent anger or excitement
• Furore – a state of great excitement or enthusiasm
• Fuss – unnecessary concern or activity
• Helter-skelter – in a confused and disorderly way
• Hoo-ha – excitement or fuss
• Hoopla – noisy excitement or fuss
• Hubble-bubble – a confused or excited state
• Hubbub – a confused or noisy disturbance
• Hullabaloo – a noisy disturbance
• Hurly-burly – a state of noisy confusion or disorder
• Hurry-scurry – a state of confused and hurried activity
• Kerfuffle (chiefly British) – a state of confused and noisy disturbance
• Pandemonium – a wild and noisy confusion
• Row – a noisy argument or disagreement
• Ruckus – a noisy disturbance or commotion
• Rumpus – a noisy disturbance or quarrel
• Stir – to cause activity or excitement
• Storm – a violent disturbance of the atmosphere, with strong winds and rain or snow
• To-do – a fuss or commotion
• Tumult – a state of confused and noisy disturbance or disorder
• Turmoil – a state of great confusion and trouble
• Uproar – a loud and confused noise or disturbance
• Pinterest 0

Leave a Reply

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

a large database of idioms

Understanding the Idiom: "alarums and excursions" - Meaning, Origins, and Usage

The term “alarum” comes from the Latin word “alarmare,” which means to sound an alarm or call to arms. In Shakespearean times, it was used as a signal for soldiers to prepare for battle. The word “excursion” has roots in the Latin word “excursio,” which means a sudden attack or raid.

When these two words are combined in the idiom “alarums and excursions,” they create a vivid image of chaos and disorder. This phrase is often used metaphorically to describe situations where there is a lot of noise, confusion, or activity happening all at once.

To better understand this idiom’s usage and context, let’s take a closer look at some examples:

– During the concert’s finale performance, there were alarums and excursions as fans rushed towards the stage.

– The company’s annual meeting was marked by alarums and excursions as shareholders voiced their concerns about recent losses.

– In Act III of Shakespeare’s play Henry IV Part I, there are several scenes that feature alarums and excursions as soldiers prepare for battle.

Origins and Historical Context of the Idiom “alarums and excursions”

The idiom “alarums and excursions” is a phrase that has been used in English language for centuries. It is often associated with chaos, confusion, and noise. The origins of this phrase can be traced back to medieval times when it was commonly used in military contexts.

During battles, soldiers would sound alarms (or “alarums” ) to warn their comrades of impending danger. These alarms were often accompanied by the sounds of trumpets or other instruments, which created a great deal of noise and commotion on the battlefield.

In addition to its military usage, “alarums and excursions” also became a popular expression in theatrical performances during the Elizabethan era. Plays from this time period often included scenes with battle or combat, which required actors to make loud noises and create chaos on stage. The phrase came to represent these dramatic moments in theater as well.

Over time, “alarums and excursions” evolved into a more general expression for any situation that involved confusion or disorder. Today, it is still used in various contexts such as politics, sports events, or even everyday life situations where there is a lot of noise or commotion.

The Use of Alarum vs Alarm

It’s worth noting that the use of the word “alarum” instead of “alarm” was common during Shakespeare’s time but has since fallen out of use except within this specific idiom. This may be due to changes in spelling conventions over time or simply because the word fell out of favor among English speakers.

Famous Examples

There are many famous examples throughout literature where authors have used the idiom “alarums and excursions.” One notable example comes from William Shakespeare’s play Henry V:

“And let us swear our resolution will keep

Alarum’d to the onset, and at once

Follow’d with a general ‘sword drawn’ cry.”

This passage demonstrates how the phrase was used in a military context to describe the chaos and noise of battle.

Usage and Variations of the Idiom “alarums and excursions”

One variation of this idiom is “alarum bells,” which refers specifically to the ringing of bells that signal an emergency or danger. Another variation is “excursion train,” which describes a special train that takes passengers on an adventure or sightseeing trip.

In literature, this idiom has been used by various authors throughout history, including William Shakespeare in his play Henry IV, Part 1. In modern times, it has also been referenced in popular culture through movies and television shows.

Synonyms, Antonyms, and Cultural Insights for the Idiom “alarums and excursions”

Some possible synonyms for “alarums and excursions” include commotion, uproar, turmoil, pandemonium, mayhem, bedlam, chaos, and disorder. These words all convey a sense of noise and confusion that is similar to the meaning of the original idiom.

On the other hand, some antonyms for “alarums and excursions” might include calmness, tranquility, serenity, orderliness, harmony, peaceable-ness. These words represent a contrast to the chaotic nature of the idiom’s meaning.

Cultural insights into this idiomatic expression reveal that it has roots in Shakespearean theater. In fact “Alarum” was an Elizabethan spelling of “Alarm,” which meant a call to arms; “Excursion” referred not only to movement but also specifically military maneuvering. Thus when Shakespeare wrote about “Alarums” he was referring not just any old disturbance but one involving conflict between armies – with all their attendant noise!

Practical Exercises for the Idiom “alarums and excursions”

Exercise 1: conversation practice.

One effective way to practice using “alarums and excursions” is through conversation practice. Find a partner or group of friends who are also interested in improving their English language skills, and engage in a conversation where you intentionally use this idiom. Start by discussing current events or recent experiences, and try to incorporate the phrase naturally into your speech.

Person A: “I was at a concert last night, but there were so many alarums and excursions that I couldn’t enjoy the music.”

Person B: “What kind of alarums and excursions?”

Person A: “Well, first there was a fire alarm that went off, then someone spilled their drink on me, and finally there was a fight that broke out near us.”

Exercise 2: Writing Prompts

Another way to practice using idioms like “alarums and excursions” is through writing prompts. Choose a prompt from below, or create your own story idea that incorporates this phrase:

– Write about an adventurous trip where unexpected things kept happening (e.g. missed flights, lost luggage).

– Imagine you’re telling someone about an eventful day at work – include several instances of chaos or confusion.

– Create a fictional story where characters must navigate through dangerous situations (e.g. natural disasters) while trying to accomplish their goals.

• Write down any other ideas for stories or conversations where you could use this idiom.
• Practice incorporating it into your speech or writing until it feels natural.
• Remember that idioms are often used in informal language, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different ways of using them.

By practicing these exercises, you’ll become more confident in using “alarums and excursions” in everyday conversation and writing. Keep exploring new ways to incorporate idioms into your language learning journey!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Idiom “alarums and excursions”

When using idioms in everyday language, it is important to understand their meaning and usage. The idiom “alarums and excursions” may seem straightforward, but there are common mistakes that people make when using it.

One mistake is using the idiom in inappropriate situations. “Alarums and excursions” refers specifically to a commotion or uproar, usually related to military action or conflict. Using it in other contexts can be confusing or even offensive.

Another mistake is mispronouncing the words. The correct pronunciation of “alarums” is with emphasis on the second syllable (uh-LAR-uhmz), while “excursions” should be pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable (ik-SKUR-zhuhnz).

Finally, some people mistakenly use the phrase as a singular noun ( “an alarums and excursions” ) instead of its proper form as a plural noun (“alarums and excursions”). This can lead to confusion and incorrect usage.

By avoiding these common mistakes when using the idiom “alarums and excursions,” you can ensure clear communication and accurate understanding of your intended message.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy policy
• Cookie policy
• Terms and Conditions

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Meet top uk universities from the comfort of your home, here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

• Learn English /

Alarums and Excursions Idiom: Check Meaning, Synonyms & More

• Updated on  
• Aug 22, 2024

The ‘Alarums and Excursions’ idiom has been evident since the era of Shakespeare. The idiom refers to a period of great excitement, commotion, or disturbance. It often implies a sense of chaos, confusion, or panic. Some similar words or phrases that can be used in place of it include helter-skelter, much ado, ballyhoo, uproar, commotion and several others. To learn more about the usage of this phase, how it can be implemented in sentences and much more, keep reading this blog post.  

This Blog Includes:

Alarums and excursions idiom: meaning & origin, alarums and excursions idiom example sentences, synonyms for alarums and excursions idiom, alarums and excursions idiom quiz.

Must Read: Most Commonly Used Idioms in English

In a broader significance, the idiom speaks of all the unexpected disruptions that life throws our way. It also indicates all the challenges that a person comes across in his/her daily life. Alarums and excursions idiom also serves as a reminder that, in a world where things are always changing and uncertain, life is full of surprises—both good and bad—and that, as humans, we are resilient enough to adjust and deal with these setbacks.

Take a look at these sentences that will help you understand the idiom:

• The unexpected discovery of a rare artefact in the archaeological dig created a whirlwind of alarums and excursions among the researchers.
• The sudden power outage at the airport plunged the passengers and staff into a chaotic state of alarums and excursions.

Going back into history, the ‘Alarums and Excursions’ idiom was recorded during the time of Shakespeare, a literary titan who wielded language with masterful precision. The idiom originates from Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” where it is used to describe the chaotic events taking place in Denmark.

To help you better understand, we have put together a few sentences using this idiom which will give you an idiom on how to use it. 

• The unexpected arrival of the guests threw the household into a state of alarums and excursions .
• The news of the impending disaster caused a flurry of alarums and excursions in the city.
• The stock market crash sparked a period of alarums and excursions in the financial world.
• The unexpected announcement of the company’s bankruptcy sent the employees into a frenzy of alarums and excursions .
• The sudden outbreak of the disease caused a wave of alarums and excursions throughout the country.

Also Read: Hush Money Idiom: Meaning, Synonyms & Examples

Enough of the meaning and origin, it is now time you look at the synonyms of ‘alarums and excursions’ idiom which you can easily use and enhance your writing by bringing variation to it. 

If you are looking for some more of the synonyms then you can refer to the picture below. You can easily save and download it for future reference.

Also Read: Stir Up a Hornet’s Nest Idiom: Check Meaning, Synonyms & More

Now that you have gone through all the information above, it now time to test yourself. We have prepared this quiz for you which will help you. You can check your performance through the answers mentioned at the end.

Question 1:

What does the idiom “alarums and excursions” mean?

A. A period of peace and tranquillity

• B. A state of great excitement or commotion

C. A feeling of sadness or despair

D. A desire to travel

Question 2:

Where does the idiom “alarums and excursions” originate from?

A. A Greek myth

• B. A Shakespearean play

C. A French novel

D. A Chinese proverb

Question 3:

Which of the following is a synonym for the idiom “alarums and excursions”?

A. Serenity

B. Calmness

Question 4:

How can the idiom “alarums and excursions” be used in a sentence?

A. The peaceful countryside was filled with alarums and excursions.

• B. The sudden news caused a great deal of alarums and excursions.

C. The relaxing spa day was full of alarums and excursions.

D. The quiet library was filled with alarums and excursions.

Question 5:

What is the root word of “alarum”?

C. Alarming

Check Your Answers:

The idiom ‘alarums and excursions’ refers to clamour, excitement, and feverish or disordered activity.

An alarum is an obsolete word for an alarm clock. It also refers to a sudden noise or cry that alerts or startles someone.

Here are a few example sentences on how this word can be used properly: As an obsolete word for an alarm clock: “My grandfather used to wake up to the loud tick of his old alarum clock.” In a historical context: “The soldiers were alerted by the sound of the alarum trumpet.”

This was all about the alarmus and excursions idiom . You can also follow the Learn English page of Leverage Edu for more exciting and informative blogs related to English grammar and the English language.

Malvika Chawla

Malvika is a content writer cum news freak who comes with a strong background in Journalism and has worked with renowned news websites such as News 9 and The Financial Express to name a few. When not writing, she can be found bringing life to the canvasses by painting on them.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

January 2025

September 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

Have something on your mind?

• Publications
• Talks / presentations
• Summer School
• Media engagement
• Bibliography
• Theatre and pronunciation
• Further links

What did an “alarum” sound like?

Graduate Intern, Luke Wilding, discusses the term alarum, and suggests what it might have actually sounded like…

The term alarum occurs 89 times in Shakespeare’s first folio. The Oxford English Dictionary states that an alarum is “used as a call to arms or warning of imminent danger, esp. of being attacked.” Christopher R. Wilson and Michela Calore’s (2014) invaluable Music in Shakespeare: A Dictionary offers this:

This term literally means ‘to arms’ (from the Italian all’armi). The sounding of alarums by various instruments, especially trumpets, drums or bells is connected with military atmospheres, and is most frequently called for in historical plays and tragedies.[1]

This does not, however, tell us much about what an alarum really is or sounds like. All we know is that an alarum is a sound which usually occurs in military situations in ‘historical plays and tragedies.’ Even Alan C. Dessen and Leslie Thompson’s A Dictionary of Stage Directions in English Drama 1580–1642 gives a limited definition:

A call to arms in the form of sound produced offstage before and during a battle helping to create an atmosphere of conflict and confusion; at Richard III’s call for “A flourish, Trumpets! strike alarum, drums!” is “ Flourish. Alarums ” (Folio Richard III , 2926, 4.4.151) and evidence indicates that a drum was usually used, although occasionally a trumpet of other instrument is indicated; the signal is most commonly simply alarum – the predominant spelling – with numerous examples in stage plots and playhouse manuscripts[.][2]

This is essentially the same definition given by Wilson and Calore (2014) with a little more detail. The reason that this is such a hard term to define is that it is so broad and general that it can cover a great range of military calls to arms.

To understand what an alarum is likely to have been intended to sound like in a certain passage from the Shakespeare corpus one must consider the context in which the alarum occurs. If we take, for example, the stage direction “ Flourish. Alarums ” which accompanies Richard III’s call for “A flourish, Trumpets! strike alarum, drums!” (Folio Richard III , 4.4.151) then it is likely that we are dealing with a relatively simple and short but melodic piece of music made up of a simple ostinato (riff) from the trumpets accompanied by simple rudiments played on a snare drum. It is tempting to think of the foxhunting bugle horn call or the military Assembly of Trumpeters For Reveille (recordings are available on the web, e.g.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pelDdFgajFk ) :

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1352189

The alarum call was, however, most likely far less ornamental than these as it was designed for the simple purpose of calling for a unified rouse and advance. Though surviving transcripts of early-modern sheet music for plays which featured alarums are very rare (if sheet music for alarums existed at all and was not simply improvised), the stereotypical modern convention for an advance alarum used on the stage and on television from Game of Thrones to the BBC’s The Hollow Crown series is a sequential interval of a “perfect fifth” performed by a trumpet or horn[3] followed by a marching rhythm performed on the snare drum (various marching rhythm examples can be found online, e.g. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0zRjYQSNxj86GtZrbZ03lg )[4]. Though it is unlikely that this is a truly synchronic representation of the advance alarum heard by Elizabethan theatre-goers, this simple compositional style fits the function of the alarum in this context.

In other situations, of course, this kind of melodically structured alarum makes less sense. The surprise attack on Le Mans in Act Two, Scene One of 1 Henry VI , for example, would allow the French army no time to assemble trumpeters and drummers and have them perform their rehearsed alarum . Sentinels, soldiers or guards keeping watch, upon seeing the English army scaling the walls of the city cry, “Arm! Arm! The Enemy doth make assault!” (2.1.38). This would most likely be accompanied by the tolling of an alarum bell rather than a figured piece of music. The bell would be struck as a kind of rude awakening to desperately rouse troops from their sleep and alert them to immediate danger. Even the call of the sentinel itself is a form of alarum in this context. An alarum is often used as a more functional device than as a musical element of military spectacle. The modern equivalents of the alarum are things like the military siren or the security alarm; automatic instruments which make hearers aware of danger and the need to prepare arms. Though no longer the tolling of the bell, the sounding of the trumpet, or the striking of the drum, these modern alarums serve the same function of rousing hearers through the same means of a loud, grating, rhythmic sound. Though somewhat artistic and ornamental in its advancement form, the alarum is, at root, a simple functional device for calling all to arm. It is an alarm.

[1] Christopher R. Wilson and Michela Calore, Music in Shakespeare: A Dictionary (Bloomsbury, London, 2014), pp. 2-3.

[2] Alan C. Dessen and Leslie Thompson, A Dictionary of Stage Directions in English Drama 1580–1642 (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2001), p. 3.

Share this:

About mathew gillings.

• Search for:

Recent Posts

• Intern – Katie Bates
• Shakespeare’s Neologisms: From Myth to Evidence
• Scuffles, Swagger, and Shakespeare: The Hidden Story of English
• Intern – Eleanor Field
• BBC Radio 3 Podcast

Twitter Feed

• Subscriber Services
• For Authors
• Publications
• Archaeology
• Art & Architecture
• Bilingual dictionaries
• Classical studies
• Encyclopedias
• English Dictionaries and Thesauri
• Language reference
• Linguistics
• Media studies
• Medicine and health
• Names studies
• Performing arts
• Science and technology
• Social sciences
• Society and culture
• Overview Pages
• Subject Reference
• English Dictionaries
• Bilingual Dictionaries

Recently viewed (0)

• Save Search

• Find at OUP.com
• Google Preview
• Share This Facebook LinkedIn Twitter

More on this Topic

• View overview page for this topic

Related Content

Related overviews, other online resources.

• ProQuest Literature Online
• Publishing Information
• General Links for this Work
• Introduction

alarums and excursions  

confused noise and bustle; from a stage direction occurring in slightly varying forms in a number of Shakespeare's history plays, as ... ...

Access to the complete content on Oxford Reference requires a subscription or purchase. Public users are able to search the site and view the abstracts and keywords for each book and chapter without a subscription.

Please subscribe or login to access full text content.

If you have purchased a print title that contains an access token, please see the token for information about how to register your code.

For questions on access or troubleshooting, please check our FAQs , and if you can''t find the answer there, please contact us .

• Oxford University Press

PRINTED FROM OXFORD REFERENCE (www.oxfordreference.com). (c) Copyright Oxford University Press, 2023. All Rights Reserved. Under the terms of the licence agreement, an individual user may print out a PDF of a single entry from a reference work in OR for personal use (for details see Privacy Policy and Legal Notice ).

date: 15 September 2024

• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Legal Notice
• Accessibility
• [66.249.64.20|81.177.182.159]
• 81.177.182.159

Character limit 500 /500

Alarms and excursions

Posted by Victoria S Dennis on September 30, 2008 at 21:34

In Reply to: Alarms and excursions posted by Rosemary Dean on September 29, 2008 at 20:02:

: What is the origin, meaning, and the original context of the phrase 'alarms and excursions'?

'Alarums and excursions' is an Elizabethan stage direction; Shakespeare and others used it. 'Alarum' is an old form of 'alarm', which derives from the Italian phrase "all'arme!" meaning "To arms!" 'Excursion' is here used in an old sense 'sally, sortie, raid'. The whole phrase used as a stage direction meant that all the extras dressed as soldiers were to dash about the stage shouting "To arms!" and generally giving the impression of exciting military action. (VSD)

English Lessons

Alarums and Excursions Idiom – Meaning and Example Usage in Sentences

Introduction: The World of Idioms

Greetings, language enthusiasts! Idioms are fascinating expressions that add color and depth to any language. Today, we’ll embark on a journey to unravel the idiom ‘alarums and excursions’.

Origin: A Glimpse into History

This idiom traces its roots back to the world of theater. In the 16th century, during the Elizabethan era, ‘alarums and excursions’ referred to the commotion and chaos created during a stage battle scene.

Meaning: Beyond the Literal

While the literal meaning of ‘alarums and excursions’ is associated with noise and confusion, it has evolved to convey a broader sense of disorder, tumult, or even a series of unexpected events.

Usage: Versatility in Context

Let’s explore the versatility of this idiom through a few sentences: 1. The new intern’s first day was filled with alarums and excursions, as she navigated the fast-paced office environment. 2. The political landscape witnessed alarums and excursions, with unexpected alliances and sudden policy changes. 3. The annual festival is known for its alarums and excursions, from the vibrant parades to the bustling food stalls.

Conclusion: Embrace the Idiomatic Charm

In the vast tapestry of the English language, idioms like ‘alarums and excursions’ serve as delightful threads. By understanding their origins, meanings, and usage, we not only enhance our linguistic skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for the richness of expression. So, let’s continue our journey of exploration, one idiom at a time!

• More from M-W
• To save this word, you'll need to log in. Log In

Definition of alarm

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of alarm  (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

Did you know?

Today we usually think of an alarm as a loud noise that awakens us or warns us of danger. Its first use, however, was in Italy as a call to arms to soldiers. The Italian phrase all’arme! means literally “to arms” or “to your weapons.” The call was borrowed into other languages and came to be shortened to alarme in early French and Middle English. The word also came to be used as the name for the cry, then for any warning, and then to any device used to sound a warning, such as a bell or a gun. Since an alarm can cause fright or worry, such feelings also came to be known as alarm. By the 17th century, the word was used as a verb, meaning “to warn of danger” and then “to frighten.”

• apprehension
• apprehensiveness

fear , dread , fright , alarm , panic , terror , trepidation mean painful agitation in the presence or anticipation of danger.

fear is the most general term and implies anxiety and usually loss of courage.

dread usually adds the idea of intense reluctance to face or meet a person or situation and suggests aversion as well as anxiety.

fright implies the shock of sudden, startling fear.

alarm suggests a sudden and intense awareness of immediate danger.

panic implies unreasoning and overmastering fear causing hysterical activity.

terror implies the most extreme degree of fear.

trepidation adds to dread the implications of timidity, trembling, and hesitation.

Examples of alarm in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'alarm.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English alarme, alarom , from Middle French alarme , from Old Italian all'arme , literally, to the arms

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

1586, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing alarm

• alarm clock
• alarm reaction
• burglar alarm
• false alarm
• no cause for alarm
• raise / sound the alarm
• still alarm

Dictionary Entries Near alarm

Cite this entry.

“Alarm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alarm. Accessed 15 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of alarm.

Kids Definition of alarm  (Entry 2 of 2)

Middle English alarme "a call to arms," from early French alarme (same meaning), derived from early Italian all'arme, literally "to arms," from all' "to the" and arme "weapon," from Latin arma "weapon" — related to arm entry 3

More from Merriam-Webster on alarm

Nglish: Translation of alarm for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of alarm for Arabic Speakers

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Can you solve 4 words at once?

Word of the day.

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

Plural and possessive names: a guide, 31 useful rhetorical devices, more commonly misspelled words, absent letters that are heard anyway, how to use accents and diacritical marks, popular in wordplay, 8 words for lesser-known musical instruments, it's a scorcher words for the summer heat, 7 shakespearean insults to make life more interesting, 10 words from taylor swift songs (merriam's version), 9 superb owl words, games & quizzes.

• 1.1 Etymology
• 1.2.1 Derived terms
• 1.3.1 Usage notes
• 1.4 See also
• 1.5 Anagrams

From Middle English alarom , from Old Italian all'arme ( “ to arms, to the weapons ” ) , from Latin arma , armorum ( “ weapons ” ) .

alarum ( plural alarums )

• 1931 , [George] Bernard Shaw , “ Pygmalion: A Romance in Five Acts ”, in Androcles and the Lion . Overruled . Pygmalion , standard edition, London: Constable and Company , published 1951 , →OCLC , Act I, page 212 : These are the only visible luxuries: the rest is the irreducible minimum of poverty's needs: a wretched bed heaped with all sorts of coverings that have any warmth in them, a draped packing case with a basin and jug on it and a little looking glass over it, a chair and table, the refuse of some suburban kitchen, and an American alarum clock on the shelf above the unused fireplace: the whole lighted with a gas lamp with a penny in the slot meter.
• 1963 , Margery Allingham , “Eye Witness”, in The China Governess: A Mystery , London: Chatto & Windus , →OCLC , page 249 : The story struck the depressingly familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen. [ … ] The second note, the high alarum , not so familiar and always important since it indicates the paramount sin in Man's private calendar, took most of them by surprise although they had been well prepared.
• 2008 December 9, Jeff Jacoby , “Skepticism on climate change”, in The International Herald Tribune ‎ [1] , →ISSN : Just another forum, then, sounding the usual alarums on the looming threat from global warming?
• c. 1587–1588 , [ Christopher Marlowe ], Tamburlaine the Great. [ … ] The First Part   [ … ] , 2nd edition, part 1, London: [ … ] [ R. Robinson for ] Richard Iones,   [ … ] , published 1592 , →OCLC ; reprinted as Tamburlaine the Great (A Scolar Press Facsimile), Menston, Yorkshire, London: Scolar Press, 1973 , →ISBN , Act I, scene ii : Come let vs meet them at the mountain foot, / And with a ſodaine and an hot alarum / Driue all their horſes headlong down the hill.
• c. 1606 (date written), William Shakespeare , “ The Tragedie of Macbeth ”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies   [ … ] ( First Folio ), London: [ … ] Isaac Iaggard , and Ed [ ward ] Blount , published 1623 , →OCLC , [ Act I, scene ii ] , page 131 , column 1: A stage direction.
• 1969 , Michael Arlen , Living Room War : It seems to me that by the same process they are also made less "real" - distinguished, in part, by the physical size of the television screen, which, for all the industry's advances, still shows one a picture of men three inches tall shooting at other men three inches tall, and trivialized, or at least tamed, by the enveloping cozy alarums of the household.
• 2016 , Christopher Kelly , The Pink Bus , Mapple Shade, New Jersey: Lethe Press, page 95 : On the cable news channels, especially, there were teary-eyed interviews with bystanders; alarums from both the gun control advocates on the one side and the Second Amendment nuts on the other; and—inevitably, inappropriately—debates over what the shooting might mean for this closely-watched Senate race.

Derived terms

• alarums and excursions

alarum ( third-person singular simple present alarums , present participle alaruming , simple past and past participle alarumed )

• c. 1606 (date written), William Shakespeare , “ The Tragedie of Macbeth ”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies   [ … ] ( First Folio ), London: [ … ] Isaac Iaggard , and Ed [ ward ] Blount , published 1623 , →OCLC , [ Act II, scene i ] , page 136 , column 1: Now o're the one halfe World / Nature ſeemes dead, and wicked Dreames abuſe / The Curtain'd ſleepe: Witchcraft celebrates / Pale Heccats Offrings: and wither'd Murther, / Alarum'd by his Centinell, the Wolfe, / Whoſe howle's his Watch, thus with his ſtealthy pace, / With Tarquins rauiſhing ſides, towards his deſigne / Moues like a Ghoſt.

Usage notes

• Alarum is an old spelling of alarm (as a noun or a verb), which has stayed around as a deliberate archaism . Possibly it is retained because of its use in Shakespeare's plays.

ālārum   f

• genitive plural of āla

• English terms inherited from Middle English
• English terms derived from Middle English
• English terms derived from Old Italian
• English terms derived from Latin
• English lemmas
• English nouns
• English countable nouns
• English terms with archaic senses
• English terms with quotations
• English verbs
• Latin non-lemma forms
• Latin noun forms
• Pages with 2 entries
• Quotation templates to be cleaned

Navigation menu

Definition of 'alarum'

Alarum in british english.

alarum in American English

Examples of 'alarum' in a sentence alarum, trends of alarum.

View usage for: All Years Last 10 years Last 50 years Last 100 years Last 300 years

Wordle Helper

Scrabble Tools

Quick word challenge

Quiz Review

Score: 0 / 5

• Access the entire site, including the Easy Learning Grammar , and our language quizzes.
• Customize your language settings. (Unregistered users can only access the International English interface for some pages.)
• Submit new words and phrases to the dictionary.
• Benefit from an increased character limit in our Translator tool.
• Receive our weekly newsletter with the latest news, exclusive content, and offers.
• Be the first to enjoy new tools and features.
• It is easy and completely free !

• Daily Crossword
• Word Puzzle
• Word Finder
• Word of the Day
• Synonym of the Day
• Word of the Year
• Language stories
• All featured
• Gender and sexuality
• All pop culture
• Writing hub
• Grammar essentials
• Commonly confused
• All writing tips
• Pop culture
• Writing tips

Advertisement

[ uh - lar - uh m , uh - lahr - ]

• an archaic variant of alarm .

/ -ˈlɛər-; -ˈlɑːr-; əˈlærəm /

• archaic. an alarm, esp a call to arms
• (used as a stage direction, esp in Elizabethan drama) a loud disturbance or conflict (esp in the phrase alarums and excursions )

Word History and Origins

Origin of alarum 1

Example Sentences

When the town bell rings the alarum members of the Gild are to go to the help of the Bailiffs only.

Suddenly the sharp wild clangor of the great alarum-bell of Famagosta crashed through the silence.

This will specially be the case when the alarum spring is long and fully wound.

At moonrise, however, Grunter woke, punctual as an alarum clock.

Mrs. Pryor was, when once unwound, like an alarum, obliged to run off.

• Dictionary entries
• Quote, rate & share
• Meaning of alarum

alarum ( English)

Origin & history.

• ( archaic ) A danger signal or warning .
• 1913 , George Bernard Shaw, Pygmalion , chapter Act I: " The rest is the irreducible minimum of poverty's needs: A wretched bed heaped with all sorts of coverings that have any warmth in them, a draped packing case with a basin and jug on it and a little looking glass over it, a chair and table, the refuse of some suburban kitchen, and an American alarum clock on the shelf above the unused fireplace […] "
• 1963 , Margery Allingham, The China Governess , chapter 20: " The story struck the depressingly familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen.[…]The second note, the high alarum , not so familiar and always important since it indicates the paramount sin in Man's private calendar, took most of them by surprise although they had been well prepared. "
• A call to arms.
• c. 1605 , William Shakespeare, Macbeth , Act I, scene II (stage direction) A camp near Forres. Alarum within.
• 1969 , Michael Arlen, Living Room War It seems to me that by the same process they are also made less "real" - distinguished, in part, by the physical size of the television screen, which, for all the industry's advances, still shows one a picture of men three inches tall shooting at other men three inches tall, and trivialized, or at least tamed, by the enveloping cozy alarums of the household.

▾  Derived words & phrases

• alarums and excursions
• ( archaic ) To sound alarums, to sound an alarm .
• c. 1605 Shakespeare, Macbeth Act II, Scene I "Now o'er the one half-world Nature seems dead, and wicked dreams abuse The curtain'd sleep; witchcraft celebrates Pale Hecate's offerings; and wither'd Murther, Alarum'd by his sentinel, the wolf, Whose howl's his watch, thus with his stealthy pace, With Tarquin's ravishing strides, towards his design Moves like a ghost."
• Alarum is an old spelling of alarm (as a noun or a verb), which has stayed around as a deliberate archaism . Possibly it is retained because of its use in Shakespeare's plays.

alarum ( Latin)

• Inflection of āla ( genitive plural )

▾  Dictionary entries

Entries where "alarum" occurs:

calendar : …familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen.[…]The second note, the high alarum , not so familiar and always important since it indicates the paramount sin in Man's private calendar, took most of them by surprise…

second : …familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen.[…]The second note, the high alarum , not so familiar and always important since it indicates the paramount sin in Man's private calendar, took most of them by surprise…

most : …familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen.[…]The second note, the high alarum , not so familiar and always important since it indicates the paramount sin in Man's private calendar, took most of them by surprise…

take : …familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen.[…]The second note, the high alarum , not so familiar and always important since it indicates the paramount sin in Man's private calendar, took most of them by surprise…

since : …familiar note with which true stories ring in the tried ears of experienced policemen.[…]The second note, the high alarum , not so familiar and always important since it indicates the paramount sin in Man's private calendar, took most of them by surprise…

Quote, Rate & Share

Cite this page : "alarum" – WordSense Online Dictionary (15th September, 2024) URL: https://www.wordsense.eu/alarum/

There are no notes for this entry.

▾  Next

alarumed (English)

alaruming (English)

alarums (English)

alarums and excursions (English)

alaruumis (Finnish)

alarve (Portuguese)

▾  About WordSense

▾  references.

The references include Wikipedia, Cambridge Dictionary Online, Oxford English Dictionary, Webster's Dictionary 1913 and others. Details can be found in the individual articles.

▾  License

▾  latest.

servitutis , চন্দ্ৰ , oustre (Old French)