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Patrolling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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patrolling

[pəˈtroʊlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

security measures

Patrolling refers to the act of moving regularly over an area to maintain security, observe, or control. This is commonly done by law enforcement or military personnel to deter crime or ensure safety. It can also involve monitoring specific zones to detect any unusual activity.

Synonyms

guarding, monitoring, ranging, surveillance, watching.

Examples of usage

  • The police are patrolling the neighborhood tonight.
  • Security guards are patrolling the building every hour.
  • The military unit is patrolling the border area.
  • They noticed an increase in crime rates, prompting more officers to start patrolling.
  • She took her dog for a walk while patrolling the park.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • Patrolling has been used for centuries, dating back to ancient military campaigns to secure territories.
  • In the 19th century, organized police forces began patrolling towns to maintain public order.
  • Neighborhood watch schemes emerged in the late 20th century, emphasizing community involvement in safety.

Science

  • Studies show that visible patrol officers can deter crime by increasing perceived safety among citizens.
  • Patrol patterns can be analyzed using geographic information systems (GIS) to optimize routes.

Pop Culture

  • The iconic character of Batman often patrols Gotham City, symbolizing vigilance and justice.
  • In video games like 'Grand Theft Auto', players can engage in patrol missions, raising awareness of law enforcement roles.

Psychology

  • The presence of patrolling guards can create a sense of security, leading to increased public trust in community safety.
  • Research indicates that communities with active patrol groups often report lower anxiety about crime.

Origin of 'patrolling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'patrol' comes from the French 'patrouille', which means to walk around an area.
  • It originally referred to military movements and has evolved to include security roles in civilian contexts.

The term 'patrol' originates from the French word 'patrouille', which means to walk or traverse an area. The phrase was adapted into English in the 17th century, initially referring to a group of soldiers or police officers assigned to guard specific areas. Over time, the usage of the word expanded to include not only the people conducting the patrols but also the action itself. The evolution of patrolling has been closely linked to advancements in law enforcement and military practices, reflecting changes in strategies for public safety and security.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,239, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.