bantay
|ban-tay|
/ˈbantaj/
guard / watch
Etymology
'bantay' originates from Proto-Austronesian, specifically the reconstructed root '*bantay', where '*ban-' meant 'to guard' or 'to watch'.
'bantay' changed from Proto-Malayo-Polynesian/Proto-Austronesian forms like '*bantay' and was retained across various Philippine languages, eventually becoming the modern Tagalog word 'bantay'.
Initially, it meant 'to guard or watch', and over time it has largely retained that meaning in modern usage, while also becoming a common noun for the person on watch and as a place name.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a guard, sentry, or watchman; someone assigned to keep watch over a place or person.
The bantay stood at the gate all night.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
a duty or position of watching (often used in contexts like village or property watch).
He took the first bantay this week for the neighborhood watch.
Synonyms
Noun 3
a proper noun: name of places (e.g., Bantay, a municipality in the Philippines).
Bantay is known for its historic bell tower.
Idioms
Last updated: 2026/01/12 22:12