SKIP TO CONTENT

safeguard

/ˌseɪfˈgɑrd/

/ˈseɪfgɑd/

Other forms: safeguards; safeguarding; safeguarded

A safeguard is a defense or precaution. You could describe a flu shot as a safeguard against getting sick, for example.

Safeguards protect against something negative, whether it's an attacking army invading a country or a boy you don't like much asking you to the prom. A store's security system is a safeguard against theft, and a secret password is a safeguard against your sister reading your email. You can use it as a verb too: "We clearly need to safeguard our Halloween candy so Mom and Dad don't steal it after we go to bed."

Definitions of safeguard
  1. noun
    a precautionary measure warding off impending danger or damage or injury etc.
    “an insurance policy is a good safeguard
    synonyms: guard, precaution
    see moresee less
    types:
    backstop
    a precaution in case of an emergency
    security, security measures
    measures taken as a precaution against theft or espionage or sabotage etc.
    type of:
    measure, step
    any maneuver made as part of progress toward a goal
  2. noun
    a document or escort providing safe passage through a region especially in time of war
    synonyms: safe-conduct
    see moresee less
    type of:
    pass, passport
    any authorization to pass or go somewhere
  3. verb
    make safe
    see moresee less
    type of:
    protect, secure
    shield from danger, injury, destruction, or damage
  4. verb
    escort safely
    see moresee less
    type of:
    escort
    accompany as an escort
Pronunciation
US

/ˌseɪfˈgɑrd/

UK

/ˈseɪfgɑd/

Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

A paragraph of text

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘safeguard'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family
EDITOR'S CHOICE

Look up safeguard for the last time

Close your vocabulary gaps with personalized learning that focuses on teaching the words you need to know.

VocabTrainer - Vocabulary.com's Vocabulary Trainer