alarming

adjective

alarm·​ing ə-ˈlär-miŋ How to pronounce alarming (audio)
: causing people to feel danger or alarm or to be worried or frightened
alarming news
The statistics revealed an alarming increase in childhood obesity.
alarmingly
ə-ˈlär-miŋ-lē
adverb
an alarmingly high rate of infection

Examples of alarming in a Sentence

an alarming rise in her fever, causing the doctor to fear the worst
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.
Between 2019 and 2023, the U.S. saw an alarming, 110% increase in deaths due to hypoxia (or oxygen deprivation to the brain) stemming from nitrous oxide abuse, according to researchers. John Wenzel, Denver Post, 6 Aug. 2025 Many are predicting that the duo will take the top two spots on the Aug. 8-10 chart, with Marvel Studios holdover The Fantastic Four: The First Steps coming in an unlucky third after dropping an alarming 67 percent to $38.6 million in its second outing over the Aug. 1-3 weekend. Pamela McClintock, HollywoodReporter, 6 Aug. 2025 These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for programs, like Girl Scouts, that foster confidence, connection and a sense of belonging at a time when many girls are struggling silently. Karina Torres Figueroa, Sun Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2025 This figure is unfavorable when compared to the company's 82% ratio in 2022, showing an alarming speed of margin contraction. Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for alarming

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of alarm entry 2

First Known Use

1658, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alarming was in 1658

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Cite this Entry

“Alarming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alarming. Accessed 20 Aug. 2025.

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