Security

/sɪˈkjʊərɪti/

nounBeginnerVery CommonTechnology

Definitions

3 meanings
1

The state of being protected or safe from harm or danger.

/sɪˈkjʊərɪti/

nounneutralBeginner
Technology

The state of being free from danger or threat.

The company invested in enhanced security measures after the break-in.

💡 Simply: Security means feeling safe and protected. Like, when you lock your doors at night, you're increasing your home's security! It's about preventing bad things from happening.

👶 For kids: Being safe from anything bad happening.

More Examples

2

The presence of police provided a sense of security at the rally.

3

His financial security was threatened by the economic downturn.

How It's Used

Finance

"The bank offered security against the loan in the form of a mortgage."

National Defense

"National security is a top priority for the government."

Personal Safety

"The company invested in security cameras and guards to protect its employees."

2

Measures and precautions taken to protect against threats, such as crime, espionage, or sabotage.

/sɪˈkjʊərɪti/

nounneutralmedium
Technology

Measures taken to guard against crime, terrorism, or other threats.

The airport had increased security following the terrorist threat.

💡 Simply: Think of security as the things you do to keep bad stuff from happening. Like, the police are there for our security, and they stop criminals.

👶 For kids: Things you do to keep safe.

More Examples

2

The company's security team monitors the building around the clock.

3

He passed through security and boarded the plane.

How It's Used

Cybersecurity

"The company implemented robust security protocols to protect sensitive data from cyberattacks."

Physical security

"Airport security procedures are designed to prevent weapons from getting on planes."

Home Security

"She installed a home security system with alarms and cameras."

Tip:Think of layers of protection: a locked door, a guard dog, a security system – all contributing to security.
3

A financial instrument, such as a stock or bond, that represents an ownership position in a publicly traded corporation, a creditor relationship with a governmental body or a corporation, or rights to ownership as represented by an option.

/sɪˈkjʊərɪti/

nounneutralAdvanced
Business

A certificate of ownership, an investment instrument, or a document serving as evidence of debt.

The company issued new securities to raise capital.

💡 Simply: In the money world, a security is like a piece of paper that proves you own a part of a company or that someone owes you money.

👶 For kids: A piece of paper that helps people make or save money.

More Examples

2

The value of the securities fluctuated with the market.

3

She invested in high-yield securities.

How It's Used

Finance

"The investor purchased government securities."

Legal

"The collateral for the loan was in the form of a security."

Tip:Think of a 'stock certificate' or 'bond.' They secure your investment.

Idioms & expressions

Security clearance

Authorization granting access to classified information.

"To work for the government on this project, you need a high-level security clearance."

Breach of security

A violation of security protocols or measures, often leading to unauthorized access or data loss.

"The company suffered a data breach due to a serious breach of security."

From Latin securitas, meaning "freedom from care, safety." Evolved through Old French sécurité.

Used since the 14th century; initially referring to freedom from care.

Memory tip

Think of Fort Knox – it's known for its extreme security to protect valuable assets.

securietysecurtysecurrity

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written