human shield

American  

noun

1. a person or group of people located or intentionally placed in a potential line of fire or in an area likely to be attacked.

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Etymology

Origin of human shield

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

After matches, national team supporters often form a human shield so that Mboladinga can leave the stadium without getting swarmed by fans eager to take photos or record TikTok videos.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 15, 2026

Celebrities had flown to Alabama to form a human shield around the marchers, the idea being that surely no one would take a shot at Belafonte.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 15, 2023

He’s a guy who earned a highly paid job by failing upward, knowing that his ultimate purpose is to be a human shield.

From Salon • May 29, 2023

And some analysts think that in sacrificing him, Ms. Truss might have removed her human shield, making her a bigger target for her opponents.

From New York Times • Oct. 14, 2022

With Hector balanced on my hip, I position myself as a human shield near the door while simultaneously keeping my eye on Lenny’s nice lamp, ready to leap for it if necessary.

From "The Benefits of Being an Octopus" by Ann Braden