caretaker
caretaker Lexical Profile
caretaker Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person employed to look after a building, estate, or public property, responsible for maintenance, security, and cleaning.
"The caretaker unlocked the school gates early every morning and inspected the heating system."
North American A person who provides physical and emotional care for someone who is young, elderly, ill, or disabled.
"She served as the primary caretaker for her aging grandmother for over five years."
An official or leader who temporarily fulfills the duties of an office until a permanent replacement takes over.
"The board appointed a seasoned executive as a caretaker while they conducted a global search for a new chief executive."
• adjective
Holding temporary office or power until a permanent successor is elected or appointed (used before a noun).
"A caretaker administration was installed to manage daily affairs until the national election could be held."
Word Nuance & Usage
In American English, 'caretaker' is frequently used interchangeably with 'caregiver' for someone looking after a person, whereas in British English it primarily denotes a building custodian or janitor.