Surveilled: meaning, definitions and examples

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surveilled

 

[ sɜːrˈveɪld ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

monitoring activity

Surveilled refers to the act of closely observing or monitoring someone or something, typically for the purpose of gathering information, maintaining security, or ensuring compliance with laws or regulations. It involves the use of various tools or methods to keep a watchful eye on activities, often without the knowledge of the person being monitored.

Synonyms

monitored, observed, spied on, watched

Examples of usage

  • The police surveilled the suspect's movements for several days.
  • The store was surveilled by security cameras to prevent theft.
  • He felt uncomfortable knowing that he was being surveilled at work.
  • The federal agency has surveilled suspected criminals for years.

Translations

Translations of the word "surveilled" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vigiado

🇮🇳 निगरानी किया गया

🇩🇪 überwacht

🇮🇩 diawasi

🇺🇦 під наглядом

🇵🇱 nadzorowany

🇯🇵 監視された

🇫🇷 surveillé

🇪🇸 vigilado

🇹🇷 gözlemlenen

🇰🇷 감시된

🇸🇦 مراقب

🇨🇿 sledovaný

🇸🇰 sledovaný

🇨🇳 被监视的

🇸🇮 nadzorovan

🇮🇸 vaktaður

🇰🇿 бақыланатын

🇬🇪 დაკვირვებული

🇦🇿 nəzarət altında

🇲🇽 vigilado

Word origin

The term 'surveilled' is the past tense of the verb 'surveil,' which originated from the French word 'surveiller,' meaning 'to watch over.' The prefix 'sur-' translates to 'over' or 'above,' while 'veiller' means 'to watch' or 'to keep awake.' The use of 'surveil' in English began in the mid-20th century, particularly in law enforcement and security contexts, as technology advanced and surveillance practices became more common. The word has evolved alongside developments in surveillance technology, such as CCTV cameras and electronic monitoring, which have transformed how governments and private entities observe individuals and gather information. Today, 'surveillance' encompasses a range of methods, including digital monitoring, telephone tapping, and public cameras, making it a critical concept in discussions about privacy, security, and civil liberties.