red alert

noun

Definition of red alertnext
as in watch
the state of being constantly attentive and responsive to signs of opportunity, activity, or danger the paparazzi were on red alert for sightings of the hot new Hollywood couple

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of red alert Three-quarters of France, encompassing tens of millions of people, was put under a red alert for extreme heat on Thursday and Friday as the mercury topped 104 degrees in some locations, including in Paris. — CBS News, 27 June 2026 Also Saturday, Italy's health ministry said 18 cities -- including the most popular tourism hubs like Venice, Florence, Bologna and Milan -- were on red alert due to danger posed by the high temperatures. — Arkansas Online, 26 June 2026 In Europe, a record-breaking heatwave has prompted red alerts across the continent. — Lim Hui Jie,leonie Kidd, CNBC, 25 June 2026 The red alert is the highest level of the national heatwave plan, reserved for an exceptional heatwave. — Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for red alert
Recent Examples of Synonyms for red alert
  1. watch
  2. watchfulness
  3. alert
  4. alertness
  5. vigilance
Noun
  • The event is a free, two-night fan festival featuring interactive fan zones, live music, games, player appearances, giveaways and an MLS watch party.
    — Alex Zietlow July 25, Charlotte Observer, 25 July 2026
  • San Jose recorded 1 million total downtown visits during the six-week FIFA World Cup, officials announced Friday — a final count over 2 ½ times initial projections — driven by energetic watch parties and strong fan culture in the city.
    — Ryan Macasero, Mercury News, 25 July 2026
Definition of watch
Noun
  • But the book’s ruminative watchfulness is unsuccessfully conjugated in this overly sedate play with music, which has the feel of a song cycle, though sung by the fine cast with gorgeous, lonely sorrow.
    — Brian Seibert, New Yorker, 19 June 2026
  • Hong Kong icon Tony Leung has channeled brooding urban energy for the masterpieces of Wong Kar-Wai, balancing the debonair ennui of Marcello Mastroianni with the quiet watchfulness of Montgomery Clift.
    — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 8 May 2026
Definition of watchfulness
Noun
  • The alerts were lifted shortly after and the authorities did not specify the nature or source of the potential danger.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 25 July 2026
  • Typhoon Noul is expected to bring winds and heavy rain to southern China including Hong Kong over the weekend, putting the region on high alert.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 July 2026
Definition of alert
Noun
  • The goal is to anchor the body’s rhythms, sharpen daytime alertness and improve sleep timing.
    — Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 21 July 2026
  • Also, never swim after drinking alcohol or using marijuana or other substances that can impact alertness.
    — Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 18 July 2026
Definition of alertness
Noun
  • Saggar said vigilance is key as health officials continue probing.
    — Terry Collins, USA Today, 15 July 2026
  • In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies.
    — Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 14 July 2026
Definition of vigilance

Browse Nearby Words

redacts
red alert
red-blooded
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Red alert.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/red%20alert. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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