alert
- adjective
- /əˈlɜrt/
- Lee was alert and in motion, too, and what ensued was a series of good screens, cuts, and quick passes that resulted in Lee finishing beautifully around the basket.
Examples
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Her eyes are as sparkling and alert as ever; her hair is a golden cloud.
Fiction book (1991) -
The dog was quick and alert, eager to chase after the frisbee.
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And that keeps me alert and energized all morning.
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The young man appeared to be alert and was very talkative with rapid speech.
Blog text (17) -
Carlos, however, is as fresh, alert, and energetic as the morning of the attack.
Fiction book (1997) -
They are alert and agile.
Academic text (2003) -
She is totally alert, almost feral in her movements.
Fiction book (1991) -
Very alert, very responsive.
-
His face is alert and ironic; his movements are rapid and purposeful.
Fiction book (1992) -
This physical change, as she develops from a spoiled, lazy, selfish brat into a strong-willed, active, and alert young lady, is used to emphasize the mental and moral improvement of the protagonist.
Academic text (2001)
Synonyms
Having a lot of energy and enthusiasm
Full of energy and active
Quick and energetic in movement or action
Happening very quickly with a lot of action
Able to move quickly and easily like a gymnast
Quick and energetic in movement or action
Quick and energetic in movement
Antonyms
Compounds
- Formal
A national system that lets officials send emergency warnings on radio and television
- Jargon
A military state where fighter jets stay ready to take off quickly to respond to a threat
- Jargon
A state when planes and their crews are ready to take off immediately for defense
How Lively
Surface Forms
Etymology
Alert comes from the Italian phrase all'erta, meaning 'on the watch', and the idea of being ready later also meant moving quickly. That's why an alert step or movement feels quick and lively.