Guarding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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guarding

[หˆษกษ‘หrdษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

security

To watch over and protect someone or something.

Synonyms

keeping safe, protecting, watching over.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guarding

Used when someone or something is actively watching and preventing harm or unauthorized access. Often implies physical presence.

  • The soldiers were guarding the entrance to the base.
  • She spent the night guarding her valuables from thieves.
protecting

General term for taking care of someone or something to prevent harm. It can be used in a variety of situations, from physical guarding to legal or emotional support.

  • She was protecting her little brother from bullies.
  • Environmental laws are aimed at protecting endangered species.
watching over

Implies a more passive and nurturing form of care, often from a distance. Can be used figuratively, such as a guardian angel 'watching over' someone.

  • The babysitter was watching over the kids while their parents were out.
  • He felt like his late grandfather was always watching over him.
keeping safe

Used for broader and more passive actions ensuring safety and well-being, without the implication of physical guarding. Often more about prevention.

  • Parents are responsible for keeping their children safe.
  • The new measures are all about keeping safe from cyber threats.

Examples of usage

  • She was guarding the entrance to the building.
  • The soldiers were guarding the border.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

The act or duty of protecting a player in a game, especially in basketball.

Synonyms

defense, protection, shielding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
guarding

Typically used to indicate watching over something or someone to prevent harm or intrusion.

  • The security guards are guarding the entrance to the event.
  • He was guarding the door to ensure no one entered without permission.
defense

Used in the context of protecting against an attack or danger, often in military, sports, or legal scenarios.

  • The army prepared their defense against the invaders.
  • She provided a strong defense in the courtroom.
protection

General term for keeping something or someone safe from harm, applicable in a wide range of situations.

  • They installed security cameras for the protection of their property.
  • Wearing a helmet is essential for your protection while cycling.
shielding

Refers to the act of preventing something or someone from being harmed, often through creating a physical or metaphorical barrier.

  • The mother was shielding her child from the rain with an umbrella.
  • He was accused of shielding the company from legal consequences.

Examples of usage

  • He is known for his excellent guarding skills on the basketball court.
  • She takes her guarding responsibilities very seriously.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Humans often guard their personal space as a way to establish comfort and safety.
  • Psychologically, feeling unguarded can lead to anxiety, while being guarded can create a sense of security.
  • People may guard their emotions to avoid vulnerability in relationships.

Cultural Practice

  • In many cultures, guarding is a crucial element of family life, where parents protect children.
  • Rituals in various communities often involve guarding sacred spaces or items as a testament to their value.
  • Different cultures have unique symbols of guardianship, from totems to protective talismans.

Literature

  • Guarding appears frequently in fairy tales, where knights or mythical creatures protect princesses.
  • In many classic novels, themes of guarding can symbolize loyalty, sacrifice, or betrayal.
  • Symbolic use of guarding in literature often reflects broader societal values around safety and trust.

Science

  • Research shows that animals exhibit guarding behaviors to protect their offspring from predators.
  • In ecology, some species guard resources like food or territory to improve their survival chances.
  • Studies indicate that guarding behavior can influence social structures within animal communities.

Origin of 'guarding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'guarder', which means to keep or protect.
  • It has roots in the Germanic word 'wardล', meaning to watch over or defend.
  • The evolution of the term through history highlights its importance in both military and domestic contexts.

The word 'guarding' has its origins in the Middle English word 'warden', which means to protect or watch over. Over time, the term evolved to 'guarding', reflecting the act of providing security or protection. The concept of guarding has been essential throughout history, from ancient civilizations to modern times, where individuals and groups have been entrusted with the responsibility of guarding valuable assets, territories, and people.


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

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,612, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.