Ward
/wɔːrd/noun
A person under the protection or care of a guardian.
Did you know?In ancient times, wards were not just protected individuals; they were often seen as vessels for the guardian's power, linking them in a sacred bond.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
wardō
“to guard, protect, or keep safe”
Old English
OE
weard
“a guard, watcher, or protector”
Middle English
ME
ward
“one under the protection of a guardian”
14th Century
Middle English
ward
“an individual placed under the care of a guardian, often a minor”
Modern English
Eng
ward
“a person under the care of another, typically in legal contexts.”