guard

(noun) a person who keeps watch over something or someone.

(noun) the person who plays that position on a football team. Example: "The left guard was injured on the play."

(noun) a device designed to prevent injury or accidents. Synonyms: safety, safety device.

(noun) a posture of defence in boxing or fencing. Example: "Keep your guard up."

(noun) the person who plays the position of guard on a basketball team.

(noun) a military unit serving to protect some place or person.

(noun) a precautionary measure warding off impending danger or damage or injury etc.. Synonyms: precaution, safeguard. Examples: "He put an ice pack on the injury as a precaution." "An insurance policy is a good safeguard." "We let our guard down."

(noun) the duty of serving as a sentry. Synonyms: guard duty, sentry duty, sentry go. Example: "He was on guard that night."

(noun) (American football) a position on the line of scrimmage. Example: "Guards must be good blockers."

(noun) a position on a basketball team.

(verb) to keep watch over. Example: "There would be men guarding the horses."

(verb) watch over or shield from danger or harm; protect. Synonyms: ward. Example: "Guard my possessions while i'm away."

(verb) protect against a challenge or attack. Synonyms: defend, hold. Examples: "Hold that position behind the trees!." "Hold the bridge against the enemy's attacks."

(verb) take precautions in order to avoid some unwanted consequence. Examples: "Guard against becoming too friendly with the staff." "Guard against infection."