gatekeeper
UK: ˈɡeɪtkiːpə | US: ˈɡeɪtkiːpər
n. a person who controls access to a place or resource
n. (figurative) someone who decides what information, ideas, or individuals are allowed in a group or system
The word "gatekeeper" combines "gate" (Old English geat, meaning a physical barrier or entrance) and "keeper" (Old English cēpan, meaning to guard or watch over). The suffix "-er" denotes an agent performing the action. Historically, gatekeepers were literal guards at gates, but the term evolved metaphorically to describe individuals or systems regulating access in social, professional, or digital contexts. The logic reflects a straightforward compounding of function (keeping) and location (gate).
The castle’s gatekeeper checked every visitor before allowing entry.
Journalists often act as gatekeepers of information in the media.
The software includes a gatekeeper feature to block unauthorized apps.
She became the gatekeeper of family traditions, ensuring they were passed down.
In academia, peer review serves as a gatekeeper for quality research.