Sentry: meaning, definitions and examples

👮
Add to dictionary

sentry

 

[ ˈsɛntri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

security

A sentry is a soldier who is assigned to stand guard and keep watch over a specific area, such as a military base, prison, or border.

Synonyms

guard, security officer, watchman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sentry

Used in military or formal settings to refer to a person who stands guard, often at a post.

  • The sentry stood at the gate, ensuring no unauthorized personnel entered the base
guard

A broad term that can refer to anyone assigned to protect persons, property, or places. Commonly used in various settings, including banks, museums, and events.

  • The guard patrolled the hallway, making sure everything was secure
watchman

Often refers to someone tasked with keeping watch during certain hours, primarily at night. Used more in historical or traditional contexts.

  • The watchman made his rounds, lighting the street lamps as he went
security officer

A professional term typically used in business or corporate environments. Refers to individuals responsible for maintaining the safety and security of a location.

  • The security officer checked everyone's badges as they entered the building

Examples of usage

  • The sentry stood at attention near the entrance to the base.
  • The sentry spotted the intruder and immediately raised the alarm.
  • The sentry's job is to ensure the security of the perimeter.
  • The sentry has strict orders not to allow anyone to pass without authorization.
  • The sentry's vigilance prevented a potential security breach.

Translations

Translations of the word "sentry" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sentinela

🇮🇳 पहरेदार

🇩🇪 Wächter

🇮🇩 penjaga

🇺🇦 вартовий

🇵🇱 strażnik

🇯🇵 見張り

🇫🇷 sentinelle

🇪🇸 centinela

🇹🇷 nöbetçi

🇰🇷 보초

🇸🇦 الحارس

🇨🇿 stráž

🇸🇰 strážca

🇨🇳 哨兵

🇸🇮 stražar

🇮🇸 vörður

🇰🇿 күзетші

🇬🇪 მეთვალყურე

🇦🇿 keşikçi

🇲🇽 centinela

Etymology

The word 'sentry' originated from the Latin word 'sentiō' meaning 'to observe, perceive'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to refer to a soldier who stands guard. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass various roles related to security and surveillance.

See also: assent, dissent, sentence.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,571, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.