Guarding
'ɡɑːrdɪŋ
Definitions
To protect someone or something from harm or danger; to keep watch over.
'ɡɑːrdɪŋ
Protecting or watching over someone or something.
The dog was guarding the house.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game and you're trying to make sure your toys don't get stolen. That's guarding! It's like watching over something or someone to keep them safe.
👶 For kids: Keeping something safe, like a superhero watching over people.
More Examples
The soldiers were guarding the border.
She was guarding her secret carefully.
How It's Used
"The security team was guarding the entrance to the building."
"The mother lioness was guarding her cubs fiercely."
"The police officer was guarding the crime scene."
Idioms & expressions
to let one's guard down
To relax and stop being cautious or defensive.
"After a few drinks, he let his guard down and started to talk about his problems."
guard of honor
A ceremonial detachment of troops, typically to pay respect to a visiting dignitary or at a formal event.
"A guard of honor was present at the state funeral."
From Middle English *warden*, meaning 'to protect, keep watch'. It is related to words like 'ward' and 'guardian'. The -ing suffix indicates the present participle form of the verb.
Historically, 'guarding' has been used to describe protecting people, property, and even principles or ideals since at least the 14th century. You can find it in writings discussing military defense, legal protection, and even spiritual guidance.
Memory tip
Imagine a knight guarding a castle – he's protecting it from danger.