all-clear
UK[ˌɔːl ˈklɪə(r)]US[ˌɑːl ˈklɪr]
n
a signal that a dangerous situation has ended and it is safe to return to normal activities
Morpheme Breakdown
all
clear
all
complete
clear
free from obstruction
Etymology
The compound noun 'all-clear' is a modern English formation, originating in the early 20th century from military and civil defense terminology. It is a literal combination of 'all', signifying totality, and 'clear', meaning free from danger or obstruction. The term's logic is transparent: it signals that an area or situation is completely clear of a specific threat, such as enemy aircraft or toxic gas, allowing for the safe resumption of ordinary life. Its usage has since broadened to metaphorically indicate the end of any period of restriction or danger.
Analysis
Structure: all (complete) + clear (free from obstruction)
'all' is from Old English 'eall', meaning the whole, entire, or complete. 'clear' is from Old French 'cler', from Latin 'clarus', meaning bright, clear, or free from obstruction.
Examples
The siren sounded the all-clear after the air raid drill.
We waited for the all-clear from the fire department before re-entering the building.
The doctor gave him the all-clear to resume his regular exercise routine.