Guarded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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guarded

[หˆษกษ‘หrdษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

security

watched, protected, or supervised by someone in order to prevent escape, violence, etc.

Synonyms

defended, protected, secured.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guarded

Typically used to describe something or someone being watched over or monitored closely, often to prevent unauthorized access or harm. It can also imply a sense of caution or withholding information.

  • The celebrity was guarded by several bodyguards
  • She was guarded in her responses during the interview
protected

Generally used to describe someone or something kept safe from harm or danger, often by legal or physical measures.

  • The wildlife in this area is protected by law
  • Parents often feel the need to protect their children
secured

Used for situations where something needs to be made safe from potential threats or kept firmly in place, often implying physical safety or stability.

  • The building was secured after hours
  • She secured her valuables in a safe
defended

Used when referring to actions taken to protect someone or something from attacks or harm, especially in military or physical contexts.

  • The castle was well defended against invaders
  • He defended his friend during the argument

Examples of usage

  • The prisoners were heavily guarded by armed officers.
  • The valuable paintings in the museum are well guarded against theft.
Context #2 | Verb

protection

to protect or defend someone or something from danger or harm

Synonyms

defend, protect, shield.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guarded

Used often to describe someone who is cautious or wary in what they say or do, to avoid giving too much information or to protect themselves from harm. It can have a slightly negative connotation, suggesting a lack of openness.

  • She was very guarded during the interview, not revealing much about her personal life.
  • His responses were guarded, as if he didn't completely trust me.
defend

Generally used when talking about protecting someone or something from an attack or harm, often in a vigorous or active manner. It can also mean to support or justify something or someone.

  • The lawyer worked hard to defend his client in court.
  • They prepared to defend their city against the invaders.
shield

Often used to describe physically blocking or covering to prevent harm. It can also be used metaphorically to describe providing protection from criticism, danger, or other negative outcomes.

  • He raised his arm to shield his eyes from the bright sunlight.
  • She tried to shield her younger siblings from the harsh realities of their situation.

Examples of usage

  • The soldiers were guarding the entrance to the building.
  • She always guarded her heart against getting hurt.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • People often become guarded as a defense mechanism to avoid vulnerability or emotional pain from past experiences.
  • Being guarded can sometimes help protect oneโ€™s mental well-being but may also hinder forming deep relationships.
  • Therapists often encourage clients to explore why they are guarded to help them open up in healthy ways.

Pop Culture

  • In many movies, characters who are guarded are often portrayed as mysterious and complex, adding intrigue to their storylines.
  • Television shows frequently depict guarded characters who struggle with trust issues, highlighting emotional journeys.
  • Songs often express themes of being guarded, reflecting the universal struggle with opening up to others.

Literature

  • Guarded characters often symbolize deeper emotional themes, representing the struggle between safety and vulnerability.
  • Classic literature frequently explores the concept of being guarded through protagonists facing moral dilemmas about trust and openness.
  • Poetry often uses the idea of being guarded to illustrate the challenge of expressing love and fear of rejection.

Social Dynamics

  • In social settings, a guarded demeanor can lead to misunderstandings or perceptions of aloofness from others.
  • Being guarded is often misinterpreted as arrogance, though it may simply stem from a desire to protect oneself.
  • Studies show that cultural influences impact how and why individuals are guarded in different social contexts.

Origin of 'guarded'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'guarded' comes from the Old French word 'garder,' which means to keep or protect.
  • Originally, it was used in the context of physical protection before evolving to describe emotional and social behaviors.
  • The concept of guarding dates back to ancient times when sentinels kept watch over castles and towns.

The word 'guarded' originated from the Middle English word 'garden', meaning to protect or defend. Over time, the term evolved to its current usage, reflecting the concept of protection or supervision. The idea of guarding has been essential throughout history, from protecting fortresses to safeguarding valuables, highlighting the importance of vigilance and security in various contexts.


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

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,351 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.