Sentinel: meaning, definitions and examples

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sentinel

 

[ ˈsɛntɪn(ə)l ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

security system

A sentinel is a person or thing that stands guard or keeps watch. It can also refer to a soldier or guard whose job is to keep watch and protect a particular place.

Synonyms

guard, sentry, watchman

Examples of usage

  • The sentinel stood at the entrance, watching for any intruders.
  • The guard dogs acted as sentinels, alerting the owners to any approaching danger.
Context #2 | Noun

symbol

In a more symbolic sense, a sentinel can refer to something that serves as a warning or indication of a particular event or situation.

Synonyms

harbinger, omen, sign

Examples of usage

  • The sudden drop in temperature was a sentinel of the approaching storm.
  • The empty streets were a sentinel of the impending danger.

Translations

Translations of the word "sentinel" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sentinela

🇮🇳 प्रहरी

🇩🇪 Wächter

🇮🇩 penjaga

🇺🇦 сторож

🇵🇱 strażnik

🇯🇵 哨兵 (しょうへい)

🇫🇷 sentinelle

🇪🇸 centinela

🇹🇷 nöbetçi

🇰🇷 보초

🇸🇦 الحارس

🇨🇿 stráž

🇸🇰 strážca

🇨🇳 哨兵 (shàobīng)

🇸🇮 stražar

🇮🇸 verðir

🇰🇿 қарауыл

🇬🇪 პატრული

🇦🇿 keşikçi

🇲🇽 centinela

Etymology

The word 'sentinel' originates from the Latin word 'sentire', which means 'to feel' or 'to perceive'. In ancient Rome, sentinels were stationed to guard the city gates and keep watch for any approaching threats. Over time, the term evolved to encompass not just physical guards, but also symbolic representations of warning or vigilance.

See also: sentinels.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,143, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.