ward
UK: wɔːd | US: wɔːrd
n. a division or room in a hospital for patients requiring similar treatment
n. a person, especially a child, under the protection of a guardian or court
vt. to guard or protect someone or something
The word "ward" originates from Old English weard (guardian, watchman), derived from Proto-Germanic wardaz (to watch, guard). It shares roots with Old High German wart and Old Norse vörðr, all tied to the concept of protection or vigilance. Over time, "ward" evolved to denote both the act of guarding (verb) and the protected entity (noun), such as a hospital division or a legal dependent.
The children's ward was brightly decorated to cheer up young patients.
The court appointed her as the legal ward of her grandparents.
Ancient castles used high walls to ward off invaders.
She wore an amulet to ward off bad luck.
The nurse checked on every patient in the maternity ward.