guard
guard Lexical Profile
guard Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person who watches over, protects, or controls access to a place, person, or group of people.
"The museum guard politely reminded the visitors not to use flash photography near the paintings."
A state or posture of vigilance, watchfulness, or readiness to defend against danger or surprise.
"The sudden, unexpected question caught the panel speaker completely off guard."
A device, cover, or attachment designed to prevent injury, damage, or loss.
"Make sure the safety guard is securely fastened over the circular saw blade before turning on the power."
A player in basketball who typically brings the ball down the court and sets up offensive plays, or a player on the offensive line in gridiron football positioned between the center and a tackle.
"The point guard dribbled past the defender and passed the ball to an open teammate in the corner."
• verb
To watch over in order to protect from harm, danger, or damage, or to prevent someone from escaping.
"Two large shepherd dogs were trained to guard the flock of sheep in the high mountain pastures."
To take precautions in order to prevent something undesirable from occurring (usually followed by 'against').
"Regular stretching and proper hydration help athletes guard against muscle cramps during long matches."
To stay close to an opposing player in order to prevent them from scoring, receiving a pass, or advancing the ball (in sports).
"The coach assigned the fastest defender to guard the opposing team's star scorer for the rest of the half."
• Rhymes for guard
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 15th century from Middle French 'garder' (to keep, watch over, protect), which itself derives from a Frankish or Germanic root related to the English word 'ward'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.