Tocsin

usgb/ˈtɑːksɪn/
noun

A bell or alarm that rings when there is danger.

The villagers heard the tocsin and knew they had to evacuate.
Visual representation of "tocsin" - A bell or alarm that rings when there is danger

Often appears as...

  • ring a tocsin
  • sound the tocsin

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "tocsin"
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Imminent Danger

Use 'tocsin' when danger is immediate and action must be taken quickly.

Illustration for Imminent Danger
A tocsin sounded throughout the town, signaling the approaching storm.
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Historic Reference

'Tocsin' often refers to historical or communal alerts, not modern personal alarms.

Illustration for Historic Reference
The watchman rang the tocsin as the enemies breached the castle walls.
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Not Just Bells

While traditionally a bell, 'tocsin' can refer to any alarm sound or system.

Illustration for Not Just Bells
The factory's tocsin blared, signaling everyone to evacuate.
Visual representation of the word "Tocsin"

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