human shield

noun

1. a person or group of people located or intentionally placed in a potential line of fire or in an area likely to be attacked.

Word History and Origins

Origin of human shield¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

He even served as a human shield of sorts, absorbing the wrath of disgruntled fans who might have turned on Snyder instead of launching a “Fire Bruce Allen” campaign.

From Washington Post

He gave a speech about a bill to help families of our wonderful veterans and brought his young son along as a human shield.

From The Daily Beast

Spun around and held as a human shield I had to helplessly watch her come yawning in the kitchen door.

From Project Gutenberg

"That's so," replied Stransky glumly, realizing that he was running with a human shield on his back.

From Project Gutenberg

His sword was wrested from his grasp, and he was made a human shield for this preposterously impudent American.

From Project Gutenberg

Mallory was crouched in the seat, and almost perfectly covered by a human shield.

From Project Gutenberg