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 Word Forms

• unsafeguarded 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

Currently, the law presumes contact with both parents is usually in the best interests of a child, with safeguards to restrict involvement where it is detrimental to a child's welfare.

Read more on BBC

He added that her resignation was mainly to safeguard against legal challenges to the party, after she was removed from office by the court.

Read more on Barron's

But Ms Goddard said the safeguarding minister's denials were a "blatant lie", and later told GB News that she would "consider" returning to the panel, but only if Phillips resigned.

Read more on BBC

“Rather than using the safeguards other industries use, they let their trust betray them,” he said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

With the right support and safeguards, players can enjoy the full potential of gaming—where fun doesn’t come at the cost of safety.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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