safeguard

[ seyf-gahrd ]

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

/ ˈseɪfˌɡɑːd /

noun

1. a person or thing that ensures protection against danger, damage, injury, etc
2. a document authorizing safe-conduct

verb

1. tr to defend or protect

Other Words From

• un·safeguarded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of safeguard¹

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

Example Sentences

In several reports he urged the pit operators to safeguard the birds.

From The Daily Beast

Why, for instance, would having more sexual partners be a better safeguard against the disease than masturbation?

From The Daily Beast

And an overzealous medical professional, hoping to safeguard against malpractice, can also be a cause of unneeded procedure.

From The Daily Beast

Time for Plan B: Work with the U.S. on joint technology investment and deployment to safeguard against asymmetrical attacks.

From The Daily Beast

Bush, by contrast, ignored those subjects almost completely, seeking to safeguard his reputation among general election moderates.

From The Daily Beast

I believed my land-service commission would protect me, but I asked for the letter-of-marque as an additional safeguard.

From Project Gutenberg

In such a community the fragile safeguard of an oath is, from sheer helplessness, the more rigorously demanded.

From Project Gutenberg

Ill indeed are those informed who raise a cry, and join in the ignorant abuse of that noble safeguard of English schools.

From Project Gutenberg

She was his safeguard against Nelly's wondering, reproachful eyes.

From Project Gutenberg

Clauses 25-28 safeguard interests of Judges, Civil Servants.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• security
• shield