to watch and protect someone or something against danger or attack
Police officers guard the entrance during the parade.
Parents try to guard their children from online dangers.
in sports, to stay very close to an opposing player in order to stop them from scoring or receiving the ball
It's your job to guard their best shooter, so stay close.
She guarded the striker tightly and blocked every shot.
A person who watches over swimmers at a beach, pool, or other water area and rescues them if they are in danger.
The lifeguard on the tower spotted the struggling swimmer.
She wants to be a lifeguard this summer.
✦ Early 1900s: from 'life' + 'guard', originally referring to people protecting lives at sea.
