Langimage
English

ward

|ward|

B2

🇺🇸

/wɔrd/

🇬🇧

/wɔːd/

protection or division

Etymology
Etymology Information

'ward' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'weard,' where 'weard' meant 'guard or protection.'

Historical Evolution

'weard' transformed into the Middle English word 'warde,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ward.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'guard or protection,' but over time it evolved to include meanings related to hospital rooms and legal guardianship.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a separate room or area in a hospital for a particular group of patients.

The patient was moved to the surgical ward.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a person, especially a minor, under the care and control of a guardian appointed by a court.

The child became a ward of the state.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to guard or protect against something.

He warded off the attack with a shield.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41