Bodyguard: meaning, definitions and examples

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bodyguard

 

[ ˈbɒdiɡɑːd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

personal security

A bodyguard is a person hired to escort, protect, and ensure the safety of an individual or group. Bodyguards are trained in various defense techniques and are responsible for assessing potential security threats.

Synonyms

escort, protector, security guard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bodyguard

This word is used for someone who is hired to protect a person, often a celebrity, politician, or someone important from potential danger or harm.

  • The movie star arrived with her bodyguard keeping a close watch.
  • As a high-profile businessperson, he always travels with a bodyguard.
security guard

This term refers to someone who is employed to protect property, people, or assets, typically in places like shopping malls, events, or office buildings. Their focus is more on general security rather than protecting an individual.

  • The security guard patrols the shopping mall after hours.
  • A security guard was stationed at the entrance of the building.
protector

This word is used more broadly and can refer to anyone or anything that defends against harm. It is not necessarily a hired position.

  • The knight was known as the protector of the realm.
  • Parents often see themselves as protectors of their children.
escort

This term is often used for someone who accompanies and protects another person, but it can also mean simply accompanying someone for various purposes like social events or travels. The context isn't always about protection.

  • Diplomats usually have an escort when attending international meetings.
  • The tour company provided an escort to show us around the city.

Examples of usage

  • The celebrity always travels with a team of bodyguards to ensure her safety.
  • The president's bodyguard intervened to prevent the attacker from getting close.
Context #2 | Noun

film industry

In the film industry, a bodyguard is a character who protects a VIP or celebrity from danger. Bodyguards in movies are often portrayed as strong, fearless, and skilled in combat.

Synonyms

defender, guardian, protector.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bodyguard

A person hired to protect someone, especially a public figure or celebrity, from harm.

  • The celebrity hired a bodyguard to ensure her safety at public events.
  • The politician's bodyguard kept a close watch for any potential threats.
protector

Someone or something that offers protection over a broader scope, can be used in various contexts to indicate a role of safeguarding.

  • The ancient fortress served as a protector of the city against invaders.
  • Parents often see themselves as protectors of their children's future.
guardian

A person who is legally responsible for the care and management of another person, especially a minor or someone with special needs.

  • She became the legal guardian of her younger brother after their parents passed away.
  • The guardian ensured the well-being of the child in all aspects of life.
defender

Someone who protects or supports something, often used in legal, sports, or general protective contexts.

  • The lawyer acted as a defender of his client's rights in court.
  • The soccer team needs a strong defender to block the opposing team's attacks.

Examples of usage

  • The bodyguard in the action movie risked his life to save the actress from the kidnappers.
  • The bodyguard's loyalty to the pop star was unwavering throughout the film.

Translations

Translations of the word "bodyguard" in other languages:

🇵🇹 guarda-costas

🇮🇳 बॉडीगार्ड

🇩🇪 Leibwächter

🇮🇩 pengawal pribadi

🇺🇦 охоронець

🇵🇱 ochroniarz

🇯🇵 ボディガード

🇫🇷 garde du corps

🇪🇸 guardaespaldas

🇹🇷 koruma görevlisi

🇰🇷 보디가드

🇸🇦 حارس شخصي

🇨🇿 tělesný strážce

🇸🇰 telesný strážca

🇨🇳 保镖

🇸🇮 telesni stražar

🇮🇸 lífvörður

🇰🇿 дене күзетшісі

🇬🇪 დაცვის თანამშრომელი

🇦🇿 mühafizəçi

🇲🇽 guardaespaldas

Etymology

The term 'bodyguard' originated in the early 1700s, combining 'body' and 'guard' to refer to individuals who protect the physical well-being of others. Initially used for military and royal protection, the role of bodyguards has evolved to encompass personal security for various individuals, including celebrities, politicians, and high-profile figures.

See also: anybody, bodily, bodycon, bodysuit, bodywork, bodyworker, embody, everybody, nobody, somebody.