Guardian
'ɡɑːrdiən
Definitions
2 meaningsA person legally responsible for the care of a person or property.
'ɡɑːrdiən
A person who protects or defends something or someone.
The child's aunt became her guardian after her parents passed away.
💡 Simply: Imagine a superhero, but instead of superpowers, they're legally responsible for someone's well-being, like a kid or someone who can't take care of themselves. They're there to protect and look after them.
👶 For kids: A grown-up who takes care of a kid or an important thing.
More Examples
The museum's security guards are the guardians of its priceless artifacts.
A legal guardian is appointed by the court to manage the affairs of a minor.
How It's Used
"The court appointed a guardian for the orphaned child."
"The dog acted as a guardian for the house."
A protector, defender, or preserver.
'ɡɑːrdiən
A person who protects and defends.
The brave knight was known as the kingdom's guardian.
💡 Simply: Like a watchful protector. Imagine a loyal dog who always barks when something is wrong, acting like a guardian of its home. Or mountains which shield a valley.
👶 For kids: Someone or something that keeps something safe and protected.
More Examples
The sturdy fence served as a guardian against trespassers.
The ancient forest was a guardian of many secrets.
How It's Used
"The mountains are the guardians of the valley."
"The ancient oak stood as a guardian over the fields."
Idioms & expressions
guardian angel
A protective spirit believed to watch over a person.
"She felt like a guardian angel saved her from the car accident."
From Middle English *gardien*, from Old French *gardien* ("protector, keeper"), from *garder* ("to guard").
The term 'guardian' has been used for centuries to refer to those who provide care and protection.
Memory tip
Think of a person who keeps a watchful eye, protecting and caring for something valuable.
Word Origin
"protector, keeper"