adj.
 quick to notice and respond to potential danger or problems. 
▸intellectually active.
n.
   - the state of being alert:
 everyone should be on the alert for terrorists.
 - a warning of danger.
 - a prompt or similar signal on an electronic device.
 
v.
 warn of a danger or problem.
 
  Derivative
  
    - alertly adv.
  - alertness n.
 
   
  Etymology
  C16 (orig. in military use): from Fr. alerte, from Ital. all' erta ‘to the watchtower’.