Safe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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safe
[seɪf ]
Definitions
feeling protected
Protected from or not exposed to danger or risk; not likely to be harmed or lost.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| safe |
Used to describe a place or state where there is no danger or risk.
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| secure |
Used to describe something or someone that is safe from threats or has a stable and firm position. Also often used in the context of data and physical safety.
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| protected |
Used to describe something that is guarded or kept away from harm or damage.
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| shielded |
Used to describe something or someone that is covered or hidden from harm, often implying a physical barrier.
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Examples of usage
- He felt safe in his own home.
- It's important to provide a safe environment for children to grow up in.
strongbox
A strong fireproof cabinet with a complex lock, used for the storage of valuables.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| safe |
A place for securely storing valuables, often found in homes or offices.
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| strongbox |
A heavy, secure box used for storing valuables, typically more robust than a regular safe.
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| vault |
A large, secure room or space, often found in banks, used for storing money, documents, or other valuable items.
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| locker |
A small storage compartment, often found in schools, gyms, or workplaces, used for storing personal items.
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Examples of usage
- He kept his important documents in a safe at the bank.
- The jewelry was stored in a secure safe.
make secure
Keep (something) from harm, damage, or loss.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| safe |
Suitable for describing an environment or condition free from danger, risk, or injury. The word is commonly used in everyday conversations to discuss safety measures or to assure someone that everything is okay.
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| protect |
Often used to describe the action of keeping someone or something safe from harm or injury. It implies active effort and can be used in contexts involving physical, emotional, or digital security.
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| secure |
Used to denote making something safe and free from danger or risk, especially regarding valuable or sensitive items. It can also imply a sense of stability and reliability in various contexts like finance, information systems, or physical protection.
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| safeguard |
Typically used in more formal settings to indicate measures taken to protect something or someone from harm. It often appears in legal or official documents, as well as in discussions about rights and policies.
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Examples of usage
- She wanted to safe her precious memories by keeping them in a digital format.
- They safed the valuable artifacts in a temperature-controlled room.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling safe is essential for mental health; it allows people to explore, learn, and grow.
- Safety and security are basic human needs, often represented at the base of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
- Perceived safety can significantly affect a person's ability to trust and form relationships.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, rituals and traditions are created to promote feelings of safety and security among members.
- Safety symbols, like a green circle, are used worldwide to signify a safe environment.
Technology
- In the digital world, cybersecurity aims to create safe online environments by protecting against threats and intrusions.
- Home safety apps have become popular, providing alerts for things like smoke, carbon monoxide, and security breaches.
Education
- Safe learning environments are crucial for students' academic and emotional success, encouraging openness and participation.
- Many schools implement programs to teach children about personal safety, including internet safety and stranger danger.
Origin of 'safe'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'safeguard', which means to protect and defend.
- In Middle English, it was used as 'safe,' meaning 'secure or free from danger.'
- The term was linked to the French word 'saf,' which further stresses protecting or shielding.
The word 'safe' originated from the Old French word 'sauf', meaning 'uninjured, intact, safe'. It entered Middle English in the 13th century with the same meaning of 'secure, free from danger'. Over time, its usage expanded to include the concept of protection and security. The modern usage of 'safe' encompasses both physical and emotional safety, reflecting the fundamental human need for security.
See also: safekeeping, safely, safen, safeness, safety, unsafe.