gatekeeper
|gate/keep/er|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈɡeɪtˌkiːpər/
🇬🇧
/ˈɡeɪtˌkiːpə/
access controller
Etymology
Etymology Information
'gatekeeper' originates from Middle English, specifically the words 'gate' and 'keeper', where 'gate' meant 'an opening or entrance' and 'keeper' meant 'one who guards or watches'.
Historical Evolution
'gate' and 'keeper' combined in Middle English to form 'gatekeeper', eventually becoming the modern English word 'gatekeeper'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'one who guards a gate', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'one who controls access'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who controls access to something, often acting as a barrier or filter.
The receptionist acts as a gatekeeper, deciding who gets to see the manager.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/17 05:51