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Definition of alertness

alertness

/əˈlɜːrt.nəs/
a · lert · ness
Adverb:alertly
•
Adjective:alert
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alertness Lexical Profile

alertness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state or quality of being watchful, attentive, and quick to notice and respond to potential danger, opportunities, or changes in one's environment.

Example

"Air traffic controllers must maintain a high level of mental alertness throughout their shifts."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for alertness

• Nearby Words

aleppo
alert
alertly
alertness
alethe
alewife
alex

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'alert' and the native suffix '-ness'. The root 'alert' entered English in the late 16th century via French from the Italian phrase 'all'erta' (literally 'on the watchtower' or 'on the lookout'), derived from Latin 'erigere' ('to raise up').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Alertness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/alertness
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