Guardian: meaning, definitions and examples

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guardian

[ˈɡɑːrdɪən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

protective figure

A person who protects or defends something or someone. A guardian is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of another individual, often a child or someone who is unable to care for themselves.

Synonyms

caretaker, defender, protector.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
guardian	Use 'guardian' when referring to someone who has the legal responsibility for another person, typically a minor or someone unable to care for themselves. She became the legal guardian of her younger brother after their parents' accident. As a guardian, it is your duty to make decisions in the best interest of the child.
protector	Use 'protector' to describe someone who keeps another person or thing safe from harm or danger, often without a legal obligation. He always saw himself as his little sister's protector. The knight acted as a protector for the villagers against bandits.
caretaker	Use 'caretaker' when talking about someone who takes care of a person (often someone sick, elderly, or a child) or maintains a property. The caretaker checked on the elderly man several times a day. He worked as a caretaker for the estate, managing repairs and upkeep.
defender	Use 'defender' to describe someone who protects or defends someone or something from harm or attack, often in a physical or legal way. The defender blocked the opponent's shot effectively. As a public defender, she fights for the rights of those who cannot afford an attorney.

Examples of usage

The guardian of the orphanage ensured that all the children were safe and well cared for.
She appointed her sister as the guardian of her children in case anything happened to her.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

legal role

A person who has the legal authority and responsibility to care for the personal and property interests of another person, especially a minor or someone with disabilities.

Synonyms

caretaker, custodian, protector.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
guardian	In the legal or parental context where someone is responsible for a child or dependent, especially concerning their well-being and legal rights. She became the child's legal guardian after the parents passed away
custodian	Often used in contexts involving someone who maintains and protects properties or institutions, such as schools or buildings; also used in legal terms regarding someone who has responsibility over financial or personal assets. The school custodian ensures that all the classrooms are cleaned every day He was made the custodian of his grandfather's estate
caretaker	Generally used to describe someone who looks after a place or a person, often in a temporary or non-legal capacity. The caretaker of the old mansion keeps the place clean and in good condition
protector	More general term used to describe someone who defends or guards someone or something from harm, often implying a sense of defense and vigilance. He felt a deep sense of being her protector, always watching out for her safety

Examples of usage

The court appointed a guardian to manage the affairs of the elderly woman who could no longer make decisions for herself.
The child's aunt became her legal guardian after her parents passed away.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'guardian' comes from the Latin word 'guardianem', meaning 'to protect'.
In medieval times, guardianship often referred to a noble person who cared for the properties and rights of orphans.
In ancient Rome, guardians were often assigned to manage the affairs of individuals unable to do so themselves.

Law

In legal contexts, a guardian is appointed by a court to protect the interests of a minor or someone unable to make decisions.
Guardianship laws vary widely around the world, influencing how legal responsibilities are designated.
The roles and duties of a guardian can include making health care decisions, managing finances, and ensuring education.

Pop Culture

The term has been popularized in movies and literature, often portraying guardians as protectors against evil forces.
In fantasy genres, characters referred to as guardians typically possess special powers or skills to defend their charges.
The 'Guardians of the Galaxy' is a popular film series that features a group of unlikely heroes protecting the universe.

Psychology

The role of a guardian can have significant emotional impacts, influencing feelings of security and trust in children.
Psychological studies show that having a strong guardian figure positively affects a child's development and mental health.
Various attachment theories emphasize the importance of dependable guardians in forming healthy relationships in adulthood.

Literature

Many literary works explore the dynamics between guardians and those they protect, often focusing on themes of sacrifice and loyalty.
Classic literature often depicts guardians as moral compasses for the protagonists, guiding their choices.
In children's stories, guardians are frequently portrayed as loving figures who help characters overcome challenges.

Translations

Translations of the word "guardian" in other languages:

🇵🇹 guardião

guardiã
protetor
protetora

🇮🇳 रक्षक

🇩🇪 Wächter

Beschützer
Vormund

🇮🇩 penjaga

🇺🇦 охоронець

захисник
опікун

🇵🇱 strażnik

🇯🇵 守護者 (しゅごしゃ)

🇫🇷 gardien

protecteur
tuteur

🇪🇸 guardián

protector
tutor

🇹🇷 koruyucu

muhafız
bekçi

🇰🇷 수호자 (수호자)

🇸🇦 حارس

🇨🇿 strážce

ochránce
opatrovník

🇸🇰 strážca

ochranca
opatrovateľ

🇨🇳 监护人

🇸🇮 varuh

zaščitnik
skrbnik

🇮🇸 verndari

🇰🇿 қорғаушы

🇬🇪 დამცველი

🇦🇿 mühafizəçi

🇲🇽 guardián

protector
tutor

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,256 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5253 emerge
5254 constructive
5255 dressing
5256 guardian
5257 directing
5258 individually
5259 realization
...