Vocabulary word Guard - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Conservation and Protection

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Middle School 14

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Protection and Avoidance

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Dictionary Definition of guard

To protect, watch over, or keep a close eye on something or someone to ensure their safety, security, or well-being.
"The police officer was assigned to guard the crime scene until further investigation."

Detailed Meaning of Guard

When someone guards, they take measures to prevent harm, damage, or unauthorized access to a specific person, place, object, or information. This can involve maintaining a vigilant presence, implementing security protocols, or actively monitoring for potential threats. The act of guarding often entails being alert, attentive, and prepared to respond to any risks or breaches. Guards may be employed in various settings, such as security personnel protecting a building, a parent guarding their child, or a soldier guarding a military outpost. The primary objective of guarding is to provide a protective barrier or surveillance to deter and prevent potential harm or unauthorized actions.

Example Sentences for Guard

1. He always volunteers to guard the entrance during events.
2. The soldier's duty is to guard the perimeter of the camp.
3. The security team has been assigned to guard the valuable artifacts.
4. She is determined to guard her secrets with utmost care.
5. The police officer was asked to guard the crime scene until further notice.
6. The watchdog fiercely guards its owner's property.

Origin and Etymology of Guard

The verb 'guard' has its origins in Middle English, where it was spelled as 'garde.' It can be traced back to the Old French word 'garder,' which meant 'to keep, protect, or watch over.' The Old French term, in turn, is derived from the Frankish and Germanic word 'wardon' or 'warden,' meaning 'to guard' or 'to protect.' The etymology of 'guard' emphasizes the action of protecting, watching over, or keeping a close eye on something or someone to ensure their safety, security, or well-being. It reflects the historical importance of guardianship and protection, making it a fitting verb to describe the act of safeguarding in various contexts, from security personnel guarding a location to individuals looking out for the welfare of their loved ones.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb guard:

abandon

protect

disregard

neglect

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Guard

1. The bodyguard's sole responsibility is to guard the celebrity's safety.
2. They take turns to guard the front gate of the neighborhood.
3. The knights in shining armor were tasked to guard the castle walls.
4. The security guard's primary job is to guard against unauthorized access.
5. The mother instinctively guards her child against any potential danger.
6. The bouncer was hired to guard the entrance of the nightclub.
7. The coast guard continuously patrols the coastline for any signs of distress.
8. The security cameras are strategically placed to guard key areas of the building.
9. The security guard diligently guards the bank vault during business hours.
10. The security personnel were trained to guard the embassy premises.
11. The prison inmate was assigned to guard duty within the correctional facility.
12. The loyal dog has been trained to guard the family's livestock.
13. The secret service agents work tirelessly to guard the president's safety.
14. The bodyguard's mission is to guard the client's life at all costs.