1
: one that buzzes
specifically : an electric signaling device that makes a buzzing sound
2
: the sound of a buzzer

Examples of buzzer in a Sentence

Their team was ahead by two points when the buzzer signaled the end of the game.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Tar Heels lost 77-74 to Villanova on a Kris Jenkins buzzer-beater, but Paige’s game-tying shot remains one of the most replayed moments in UNC history. — Charlotte Observer, 30 Oct. 2026 One of the highlights of the night was Jovic’s make on a half-court heave at the halftime buzzer. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 29 Oct. 2026 Their performances gave Brooklyn something to build on, even after Jayson Tatum’s buzzer-beater dropped the Nets to 0-4. — C.j. Holmes, New York Daily News, 29 Oct. 2026 Malone added a free throw to make it 71-69 with 5 seconds left, but Alex Wilkins’ buzzer-beating floater sent the game into overtime. — Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for buzzer

Word History

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of buzzer was in 1604

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Buzzer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buzzer. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

: an electric signaling device that makes a buzzing sound
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster