Wardship
/ˈwɔːrd.ʃɪp/noun
The legal status or office of being a ward under someone’s guardianship; in feudal law, the guardian’s rights over a minor heir.
Did you know?Wardship comes from the same ancient Germanic root as ward, guard, and reward, all tied to the idea of watching over someone or something under protection.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*wardō
“a guard, watcher, or one who keeps watch”
Old English
OE
weard
“a guard, watchman, protector”
Old English
OE
weardscip
“the condition or office of being a ward; guardianship”
Middle English
ME
wardship
“guardianship; legal custody of a minor or heir”
Modern English
English
wardship
“the state or office of being a ward under guardianship”