Definition

A bell that is used to signal an alarm or warning, often indicating danger or an important event.

Example

The tocsin rang loudly, alerting the villagers of the approaching storm.

Conversation

Did you hear the tocsin ringing this morning?

Yeah, it sounded pretty alarming, didn’t it?

I wonder if it was a warning about the storm coming.

Could be! I hope everyone is prepared for it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tocsin originates from Old French 'toquesin', which means a warning bell or alarm. The word is derived from 'toquer' (to strike or hit) and 'sin' (a variant of 'son', meaning sound). Thus, tocsin refers to the sound made by striking a bell to signal an alarm or warning.

Memory Tip

Imagine a bell being 'struck' ('toquer') to make a 'sound' ('sin') — that's how a tocsin serves as a warning signal.

Visually Confused Words