guarded

[ gahr-did ]

adjective

1. cautious; careful; prudent:

   to be guarded in one's speech.

   Synonyms: vigilant, circumspect, chary, watchful, wary

2. protected, watched, or restrained, as by a guard.

guarded

/ ˈɡɑːdɪd /

adjective

1. protected or kept under surveillance
2. prudent, restrained, or noncommittal

   a guarded reply

Derived Forms

• ˈguardedly, adverb
• ˈguardedness, noun

Other Words From

• guarded·ly adverb
• guarded·ness noun
• self-guarded adjective
• well-guarded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of guarded¹

First recorded in 1500–10; guard + -ed ²

Example Sentences

Most lawmakers tend to all sing the same tune in their guarded echo chamber, ignoring different sounding appeals from the public.

From Los Angeles Times

"But I'm being a bit more guarded at the moment."

From BBC

In years past, lawmakers have jealously guarded their constitutional powers.

From New York Times

Despite the success, much of the television personality's personal life was tightly guarded from the public.

From Salon

It is also common for followers to touch these statues for blessings - meaning they are also rarely guarded - leaving them wide open for thieves.

From BBC

Related Words

• cautious
• circumspect
• reserved
• restrained