Custodian: meaning, definitions and examples

At schools, office buildings, or institutions, this term typically refers to someone responsible for cleaning and maintaining the premises, but it can also imply a guardian role over important objects or documents.

• The custodian locked up the school after everyone left.
• She is the custodian of the museum's most valued artifacts.

Used mainly when referring to someone who looks after the people, buildings, or animals temporarily or on a full-time basis. This term is gentle and often used in British English for janitors or groundskeepers.

• The caretaker fed and groomed the horses every day.
• While the owner was away, a caretaker was hired to maintain the estate.

This term is commonly used in American English to describe someone responsible for cleaning and basic maintenance in buildings. It can sometimes have a less prestigious connotation.

• The janitor cleaned the classrooms every evening.
• As a janitor, he ensured that the restrooms were spotless.

Most often used in the context of someone who takes care of animals, such as in zoos, or someone who maintains a specific role of oversight and guardianship.

• The lion keeper was very experienced in handling big cats.
• He is the keeper of the lighthouse, ensuring the light never goes out.

Used primarily to describe someone who is responsible for taking care of a building, property, or a collection of items. It emphasizes maintenance and protection of physical assets.

• The custodian arrived early to clean the school before the students arrived.
• As a custodian of the museum, she ensures that all exhibits are well-maintained.

Typically refers to someone who is legally responsible for the care and well-being of another person, especially a minor. It emphasizes protection and supervision.

• After the parents were no longer able to care for him, his aunt became his legal guardian.
• The school's policy requires a guardian's signature for any field trips involving overnight stays.

Often used in legal and financial contexts, referring to a person or organization that holds and manages assets or property for the benefit of another. It emphasizes fiduciary responsibility.

• He was appointed as a trustee to manage the family's estate after the owner passed away.
• The university's trustee board decided to allocate more funds for student scholarships.