a summons to arms, as on the approach of an enemy.-any sound or information intended to give notice of approaching danger; a warning sound to arouse attention; a warning of danger.-a sudden attack; disturbance; broil.-sudden surprise with fear or terror excited by apprehension of danger; in the military use, commonly, sudden apprehension of being attacked by surprise.-a mechanical contrivance for awaking persons from sleep, or rousing their attention; an alarum.-to call to arms for defense; to give notice to (any one) of approaching danger; to rouse to vigilance and action; to put on the alert.-to keep in excitement; to disturb.-to surprise with apprehension of danger; to fill with anxiety in regard to threatening evil; to excite with sudden fear.