Definition

A person who causes unnecessary fear or worry by spreading exaggerated or false information about potential dangers or disasters.

Example

The alarmist warned everyone about the potential disaster, but many dismissed his claims as exaggerated.

Conversation

Did you hear what that guy said about the weather this weekend?

Yeah, he sounded like such an alarmist with all those warnings.

I know, right? It's like he enjoys creating panic over nothing.

Exactly! Sometimes it's better to stay calm and just wait to see what happens.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Alarmist → It is formed from "alarm" (from Old French *alarme*, meaning a call to arms or warning) and "-ist" (meaning a person who practices or is concerned with something). An alarmist is a person who raises alarms or warnings, often about exaggerated threats.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who raises a 'warning' ('alarm') and is a 'person' ('-ist') concerned with potential dangers. This helps you remember that an alarmist is someone who tends to exaggerate threats.

Visually Confused Words