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.

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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

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verb

1. (tr) to defend or protect

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

Court documents filed this week show that the companies are finalizing settlements in lawsuits in which families accused them of not putting in enough safeguards before publicly releasing AI chatbots.

From Los Angeles Times

"Each church body has its own safeguarding personnel employed who assist and advise the bishop or congregational leader on responding to survivors on an individual basis," they said.

From BBC

Reports had suggested that Russia had dispatched a submarine to safeguard the vessel, but it appears that US forces were able to board the tanker without facing any resistance.

From BBC

Even small companies are bulking up efforts to safeguard top brass.

From The Wall Street Journal

The report said a reduction to the annual rent or safeguards to mitigate the financial risks of increased radon levels were not negotiated and "poor commercial decisions" were made when the lease was signed.

From BBC

Related Words

• assure
• conserve
• defend
• ensure
• insure
• look after
• preserve
• secure
• shield