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Guard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’‚
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guard

[ษกษ‘หrd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

security

A person who protects someone or something, especially a place or group of people, from danger or attack.

Synonyms

defender, sentinel, watchman.

Examples of usage

  • The guard stood at the entrance to the castle.
  • The security guard checked everyone's ID before allowing them to enter.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

A player in sports such as basketball, soccer, or football whose main role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring.

Synonyms

defender, protector, stopper.

Examples of usage

  • He is a tough defender and a key player in the team's defense.
  • The basketball guard intercepted the pass and scored a fast break layup.
Context #3 | Verb

watch over

To watch over in order to protect or control.

Synonyms

defend, protect, watch over.

Examples of usage

  • She guards her personal information carefully.
  • The dog guards the house against intruders.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Guards have existed since ancient Rome, where soldiers were assigned to protect important figures and buildings.
  • In the Middle Ages, castle guards were crucial for defending against invasions, often patrolling walls and gates.
  • The concept of bodyguards dates back to ancient civilizations, where faithful soldiers protected kings and leaders.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and books, guards are often portrayed as stern but loyal characters, like the guards of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.
  • The phrase 'guard dog' is popular in films, portraying dogs as fierce protectors of homes and families.
  • Video games often feature guards as characters that players must sneak past or defeat to progress.

Psychology

  • The concept of 'guarding' can apply to emotional states as well; people often 'guard' their feelings to protect themselves from hurt.
  • Defense mechanisms in psychology serve as emotional guards, helping individuals manage anxiety or stress.
  • The idea of being a 'guard' can symbolize a protective barrier in relationships, where individuals shield themselves from possible rejection.

Literature

  • Many literary works use the idea of a guard to symbolize loyalty or sacrifice, such as in 'The Night Watch' by Rembrandt, depicting guards protecting the night.
  • In Shakespeareโ€™s plays, guards often accompany kings and nobles, emphasizing the themes of power and protection.
  • Fantasy literature often creates magical guards that serve to protect the realms against evil forces.

Origin of 'guard'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'guard' comes from the Old French word 'garde,' which means to protect or to watch over.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'guardare,' which means to keep an eye on or to watch.
  • Historically, the word has been used in various languages to indicate protection and safety.

The word 'guard' originated from the Old French word 'garde', which means 'to protect'. It has been used in various languages and cultures throughout history to refer to those who protect, defend, or watch over others. Guards have played a crucial role in maintaining security and order in societies, from ancient civilizations to modern times.

See also: blackguard, guarded, guardedly, guardhouse, guardian, guarding, guardrail, guards, guardsman, safeguards, unguarded, vanguard.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,681, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.