guardianship

[ gahr-dee-uhn-ship ]

noun

1. the position and responsibilities of a guardian, especially toward a ward.
2. care; responsibility; charge.

Word History and Origins

Origin of guardianship¹

First recorded in 1545–55; guardian + -ship

Example Sentences

Because same-sex marriage is not legal in China, she advises couples on other ways to obtain spousal rights such as inheritance and guardianship for medical procedures.

From Los Angeles Times

Parents signed guardianship agreements allowing family members or friends to care for their children if they were detained.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead, Howard-Elley said, she called and asked to be exempted from jury duty because of guardianship duties for three of her grandchildren.

From Salon

They cite Saudi Arabia’s record on freedom of expression and assembly, treatment of prisoners and migrant workers, and male guardianship laws that limit personal freedoms for women.

From Seattle Times

Critics charge that the massive investments are an attempt at “sportswashing,” calculated to distract from an abysmal human rights record — imprisonment and violence against commentators and activists, travel bans, and male guardianship laws over women.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• custody