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

For many, Saabirin's death symbolised a broader failure in child protection and the slow implementation of legal safeguards meant to prevent such tragedies.

From BBC

This year, Chinese state media described the protection of wild birds as crucial for safeguarding ecosystems vital to human survival.

From BBC

Ukrzaliznytsia says it is doing everything to both safeguard its operations and protect its workforce, around a quarter of which has either emigrated, joined the military or been killed or injured.

From The Wall Street Journal

In theory, a humanoid robot won’t need the same safeguards as an industrial arm that might weigh thousands of pounds and operate at high speeds.

From The Wall Street Journal

"However, it's vital to ensure that the correct safeguarding measures are in place to protect our children from exposure to harmful content or contacts, particularly on any new devices."

From BBC

Related Words

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