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Synonyms

safeguard

American  
[seyf-gahrd] / ˈseɪfˌgɑrd /

noun

  1. something that serves as a protection or defense or that ensures safety.

  2. a permit for safe passage.

  3. a guard or convoy.

  4. a mechanical device for ensuring safety.


verb (used with object)

  1. to guard; protect; secure.

    Synonyms:
    shield, defend
safeguard British  
/ ˈseɪfˌɡɑːd /

noun

  1. a person or thing that ensures protection against danger, damage, injury, etc

  2. a document authorizing safe-conduct

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

verb

  1. (tr) to defend or protect

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • unsafeguarded adjective

Etymology

Origin of safeguard

1325–75; Middle English savegarde (noun) safe conduct < Middle French salvegarde, sauvegarde. See safe, guard

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“These wagers are happening on platforms that, in many cases, operate without proper oversight or safeguards.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Guards are the ideological arm of Iran's military, tasked with safeguarding the Islamic revolution from external and internal threats.

From Barron's

"The most important thing we can do during this time is to safeguard everything we have achieved under his guidance."

From Barron's

Meanwhile, at the Washington Post, the newspaper Bezos purchased in 2013 with promises to safeguard its democratic mission, the newsroom has bled talent for months.

From Salon

Beijing, meanwhile, on Friday vowed to "take all necessary measures to resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies".

From Barron's