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Guardian: meaning, definitions and examples

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guardian

 

[ ˈɡɑːrdɪən ]

Noun
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

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

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "guardian" in other languages:

🇵🇹 guardião

🇮🇳 रक्षक

🇩🇪 Wächter

🇮🇩 penjaga

🇺🇦 охоронець

🇵🇱 strażnik

🇯🇵 守護者 (しゅごしゃ)

🇫🇷 gardien

🇪🇸 guardián

🇹🇷 koruyucu

🇰🇷 수호자 (수호자)

🇸🇦 حارس

🇨🇿 strážce

🇸🇰 strážca

🇨🇳 监护人

🇸🇮 varuh

🇮🇸 verndari

🇰🇿 қорғаушы

🇬🇪 დამცველი

🇦🇿 mühafizəçi

🇲🇽 guardián

Etymology

The word 'guardian' has its origins in the Old French word 'gardien', which comes from the Latin word 'guardianus'. The concept of guardianship can be traced back to ancient Roman law, where a guardian (tutor) was appointed to protect the interests of minors or individuals who were unable to manage their own affairs. Over time, the term 'guardian' evolved to encompass both the protective and legal roles that we associate with it today.

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

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.