safety
safety Lexical Profile
safety Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The condition of being protected from or unlikely to cause danger, risk, or injury.
"The airline prioritizes passenger safety above all other operational concerns."
A place or situation that provides shelter and freedom from harm or danger.
"The hikers hurried down the mountain trail to reach the safety of the cabin before the storm hit."
A mechanical device or catch designed to prevent a machine, tool, or firearm from operating accidentally.
"Always engage the safety on the nail gun before setting it down on the workbench."
North American In gridiron football, a defensive back who lines up farthest behind the line of scrimmage to defend against deep passes and long runs, or a two-point scoring play resulting from the offensive team being tackled in its own end zone.
"The free safety intercepted the long pass deep in the fourth quarter to seal the victory."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Safety' typically refers to protection from accidental harm, physical hazards, or natural risks, whereas 'security' implies active defense against intentional threats, malice, or crime.
• Rhymes for safety
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Entered Middle English from Old French 'sauvete', derived from Medieval Latin 'salvitas', from Classical Latin 'salvus' meaning 'uninjured, healthy, or safe'.