Gatekeeper: meaning, definitions and examples

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gatekeeper

 

[ ˈɡeɪtˌkiːpər ]

Context #1

security

A person who controls access to a place or institution, typically by checking identification or credentials.

Synonyms

guard, sentinel, watchman

Examples of usage

  • The gatekeeper asked to see my ID before allowing me to enter the building.
  • The gatekeeper refused to let anyone in without a valid pass.
Context #2

business

A person or group that controls access to certain opportunities or resources, acting as a barrier to entry.

Synonyms

arbiter, controller, custodian

Examples of usage

  • He was seen as the gatekeeper to the industry, with the power to approve or reject new players.
  • The gatekeeper's approval was crucial for the project to proceed.

Translations

Translations of the word "gatekeeper" in other languages:

🇵🇹 porteiro

🇮🇳 दरबान

🇩🇪 Torwächter

🇮🇩 penjaga gerbang

🇺🇦 сторож

🇵🇱 odźwierny

🇯🇵 門番 (もんばん)

🇫🇷 gardien

🇪🇸 guardián

🇹🇷 kapıcı

🇰🇷 문지기

🇸🇦 حارس البوابة

🇨🇿 vrátný

🇸🇰 vrátnik

🇨🇳 看门人

🇸🇮 vratar

🇮🇸 dyravörður

🇰🇿 қақпашы

🇬🇪 კარიბჭის მცველი

🇦🇿 qapıçı

🇲🇽 guardián

Word origin

The term 'gatekeeper' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'gate' and 'keeper' to refer to someone who guards or controls access to a gate. Over time, the concept expanded to include metaphorical gates in various contexts, such as business and information flow. The gatekeeper plays a crucial role in regulating access and maintaining security or control in different settings.

See also: gate, gateway.