Pronunciation: [ɐlˈɑːm kˈɔːl] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "alarm call" reflects its phonetic pronunciation. The initial "a" is pronounced as the short vowel sound /ə/ (schwa) followed by the /l/ sound. The second syllable begins with the letter "a" pronounced as the long vowel sound /ɑː/, followed by the /r/ sound and a soft /m/ sound. The final consonant is /k/ pronounced with a sharp stop. Overall, the phonetic transcription of "alarm call" is /əˈlɑːrm kɔːl/.
An alarm call refers to a communication or signal made by animals, particularly those in the wild, to alert others of potential danger or threat. This term commonly applies to species of birds and mammals but may also involve other animals. The primary purpose of an alarm call is to warn and mobilize members of a group or community to take necessary action in response to a nearby predator, intruder, or any other potentially harmful situation.
Alarm calls are usually distinct vocalizations with specific acoustic features that distinguish them from regular communication signals. These calls often involve loud, high-pitched, repetitive, and rapid sounds that can be heard over great distances. Animals may emit alarm calls in various forms, such as repeated chirps, barks, howls, screams, or even hisses, depending on the species.
These warning vocalizations are crucial for the survival and protection of individuals within a social group. Alarm calls serve multiple functions, including the recruitment of assistance from other group members, communication of specific threat types, and coordination of defensive strategies. By producing alarm calls, animals aim to startle or intimidate potential predators, as well as inform conspecifics about the potential threat and prompt them to take evasive actions.
Furthermore, alarm calls can also be observed in domesticated animals, such as dogs, who may instinctively bark loudly or growl when they sense unfamiliar or threatening situations. In human contexts, the term "alarm call" can also refer to the act of setting a time-specific wake-up call on an alarm clock or a phone to ensure timely awakening.
The word "alarm" originated from the Old French "alarme" and came into English in the late 14th century. It was derived from the Italian word "all'arme", which means "to arms" or "to weapons". This Italian expression was used as a military command to summon soldiers to prepare for battle. Over time, "alarm" evolved to refer to any warning or signal that indicates danger or the need for immediate action.
The word "call" has Old Norse origins and was brought to English through the Viking conquests of Britain in the 9th and 10th centuries. In Old Norse, the word "kalla" meant "to call or summon" and entered the English language as "call". It refers to the act of making a vocal or auditory signal to attract attention or inform others.
