caretaker

American  

[kair-tey-ker] / ˈkɛərˌteɪ kər /

noun

1. a person who is in charge of the maintenance of a building, estate, etc.; superintendent.

2. a person or group that temporarily performs the duties of an office.

3. British. a janitor.

4. a person who takes care of another.

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adjective

1. involving the temporary performance of the duties of an office.

   a caretaker government.

caretaker British  

/ ˈkɛəˌteɪkə /

noun

1. a person who is in charge of a place or thing, esp in the owner's absence

   the caretaker of a school

2. (modifier) holding office temporarily; interim

   a caretaker government

3. social welfare a person who takes care of a vulnerable person, often a close relative See also carer

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Other Word Forms

• caretaking noun

Etymology

Origin of caretaker

First recorded in 1855–60; care + take ( def. ) + -er ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Sushila Karki, 73, a former chief justice who had led the caretaker administration for six months, said the country's future lay in the hands of a younger generation.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

Since Callejas’ deportation, the children have been with a caretaker, and a judge has allowed their father more time with them, according to lawyers for both parents.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

Rooney, who has praised Carrick and previously said the caretaker has given United fans a taste of the Fergie era, is in agreement with Owen.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

To answer your other question: It would be responsible for you to hire a part-time caretaker.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 10, 2026

“Now,” said Amelia, who was far more conscientious about her duties as caretaker than Lyddie would have wished, “where will you be going to church on the Sabbath?”

From "Lyddie" by Katherine Paterson

Related Words

• curator
• custodian
• janitor
• keeper
• sitter
• superintendent
• supervisor
• warden