guardian
UK: ˈɡɑːdiən | US: ˈɡɑːrdiən
n. a person who protects or defends something
n. a legal caretaker of a minor or incapacitated person
n. a defender or preserver of principles or traditions
The word "guardian" originates from Old French "gardien," derived from "garder" (to guard or protect), which itself traces back to Frankish *"wardōn" (to watch or defend). The suffix "-ian" (from Latin "-ianus") denotes a person connected to a role or function. Over time, "guardian" evolved to signify not just physical protection but also legal and moral stewardship, reflecting its dual roots in military vigilance (guard) and personal responsibility (ian).
The library appointed her as the guardian of rare manuscripts.
As a legal guardian, he made decisions for his younger sister.
The wolf is often seen as a guardian of the forest in folklore.
She became a fierce guardian of free speech rights.
Ancient cultures believed in spiritual guardians to ward off evil.