Caretaker: meaning, definitions and examples
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caretaker
[ ˈker.teɪ.kər ]
job description
A caretaker is a person employed to look after a building, such as a school, or a person, such as a child or elderly individual, who needs help and protection.
Synonyms
custodian, guardian, watchman.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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caretaker |
This word was repeated, so the context and examples are the same as the previous entry.
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custodian |
Used in a more formal or professional setting, often referring to someone responsible for cleaning and maintaining buildings or properties.
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guardian |
Refers to someone who is legally responsible for another person, especially a minor, giving it a more protective connotation.
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watchman |
Usually describes someone who guards a building or area, often during nighttime hours, with a focus on security.
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Examples of usage
- The caretaker of the school is responsible for maintaining the premises and ensuring safety.
- She works as a caretaker for an elderly couple, assisting them with daily tasks.
environmental conservation
A caretaker is also a person who takes care of a natural area, such as a park or wildlife reserve, to ensure its preservation and cleanliness.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
caretaker |
Used when referring to someone who takes care of another person or property temporarily.
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steward |
Used when referring to someone responsible for managing, caring for, or overseeing something, often resources or property, for others.
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guardian |
Used when referring to someone legally responsible for another person, typically for a minor or someone who cannot care for themselves.
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protector |
Used when emphasizing someone who defends or shields others from harm or danger.
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Examples of usage
- The caretaker of the national park monitors the wildlife and prevents illegal activities.
- Volunteers act as caretakers of the beach, picking up litter and educating visitors.
Translations
Translations of the word "caretaker" in other languages:
🇵🇹 cuidador
🇮🇳 देखभाल करने वाला
🇩🇪 Betreuer
🇮🇩 pengasuh
🇺🇦 доглядач
🇵🇱 opiekun
🇯🇵 世話人
🇫🇷 gardien
🇪🇸 cuidador
🇹🇷 bakıcı
🇰🇷 보호자
🇸🇦 مُعتني
🇨🇿 pečovatel
🇸🇰 opatrovateľ
🇨🇳 看护者
🇸🇮 skrbnik
🇮🇸 umönnunaraðili
🇰🇿 қамқоршы
🇬🇪 ზრუნვა
🇦🇿 qayğıkeş
🇲🇽 cuidador
Etymology
The word 'caretaker' originated in the 19th century, combining 'care' and 'taker' to describe someone who takes care of something or someone. Originally used in the context of property management, the term expanded to include various forms of caregiving and environmental protection.
See also: care, career, carefree, careful, carefully, carefulness, caregiver, caregiving, careless, carelessly, carelessness, caress, caretakers, caretaking, caring, caringly, overcareful, ultracareful, uncaring, uncaringly.