noun / verb
safeguard
SAYF-gard/ˈseɪfɡɑːrd/
A protective measure or the act of protecting against harm or loss.
The closed stair gate provides a safeguard against the toddler falling.
Etymology
The pieces combine being safe with keeping or custody: safeguarding is literally safekeeping. The verb developed from the noun meaning protection or security, turning that protective condition into the action of keeping something from harm.
In context
to secure the future of this species efforts to protect their natural habitats and Safeguard them from threats are crucial
More examples
- The new policy includes safeguards against fraud.
- These rules safeguard workers from dangerous conditions.
- The museum safeguards its oldest paintings from moisture.
Forms
safeguard · safeguards · safeguarded · safeguarding
Similar words
- precaution
- An action taken beforehand to reduce a possible risk.
- protect
- Broadly means keeping safe, without emphasizing a specific preventive measure.
- shield
- Emphasizes blocking harm or exposure, often with a barrier.