Guards: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe individuals who are tasked with protecting a specific place or person. This word is commonly used in general and formal contexts.

• The guards stood at the entrance to ensure no unauthorized person entered.
• A team of guards protected the VIP during the event.

A more formal term used to describe individuals employed to ensure the safety and security of a location or person. This word is commonly used in professional or organizational contexts.

• The security personnel conducted regular patrols around the building.
• All guests were checked by security personnel before entering the venue.

This term is often used to describe individuals who keep watch, usually at night, to guard a specific area. It has an old-fashioned feel and might be less common in modern usage.

• The watchmen took turns patrolling the castle grounds.
• In old stories, watchmen are depicted standing guard in the shadows.

Refers to individuals or entities that defend or shield others from harm. This word can be used in both literal and figurative contexts and often evokes a sense of safety and care.

• The soldiers acted as protectors of the nation.
• Parents are often seen as the protectors of their children.

Typical in settings like castles, banks, or any location requiring surveillance by multiple people employed for security.

• The guards at the museum were very alert
• The royal palace has several guards stationed at the entrance

Commonly used in sports or in a metaphorical sense to describe someone who protects or supports someone or something.

• He is the best defender on the soccer team
• She is a staunch defender of human rights

Used to describe someone who shields others from harm, often in a caring or nurturing role.

• Parents are the protectors of their children
• He saw himself as her protector during difficult times

Often describes a lone guard or watchman, usually standing in a fixed position, and may have poetic or formal connotations.

• The sentinel stood guard all night
• Like a sentinel, the lighthouse keeps watch over the rocky coast

Used in a broader sense to describe actions taken to keep someone or something safe from harm or injury, including physical, emotional, or financial protection.

• Parents work hard to protect their children.
• He built a fence to protect his garden from animals.

Generally used to describe a more constant and nurturing form of supervision, often implying care or concern rather than just security.

• The babysitter will watch over the kids while we're out.
• He felt comforted knowing his guardian angel was watching over him.

Often used when describing actions taken to prevent or repel an attack, especially in sports, legal situations, or military contexts.

• The team needs to defend their title this season.
• She hired a lawyer to defend her in court.