surveillance
UK: səˈveɪ.ləns | US: sɚˈveɪ.ləns
n. close observation, especially of a suspected person or group
n. systematic monitoring of behavior or activities for information gathering
surveillance = sur<over> + veill<watch> + ance<noun suffix>
- sur<over>: From French "sur-" (Latin "super"), meaning "over" or "above."
- veill<watch>: From Old French "veiller" (Latin "vigilare"), meaning "to watch" or "keep vigil."
- ance<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns indicating a state or action (e.g., "vigilance").
Etymology Origin:
The word "surveillance" entered English in the early 19th century from French, where it originally meant "oversight" or "watchful care." It combines "sur-" (over) and "veiller" (to watch), reflecting the idea of observing from above—a metaphor for authoritative supervision. The term gained prominence in military and policing contexts, evolving to denote systematic monitoring, often with a connotation of suspicion or control.
The police maintained constant surveillance on the suspect’s apartment.
Public surveillance cameras are common in urban areas.
The company implemented employee surveillance to prevent data leaks.
Satellite surveillance revealed unauthorized border crossings.
Privacy advocates criticize mass surveillance by governments.