stand guard

Idioms and Phrases

Watch over, act as a lookout, as in We'll climb the tree and get the apples if Josh will stand guard , or There's a parking space; stand guard while I make a U-turn and get to it . This term alludes to the military defense of posting guards to watch for the enemy.

Example Sentences

In the early dawn of that May morning, as the New England men stood guard over the flames, five hundred men, women, and children were slowly burned alive.

From Salon

State troopers now stand guard outside schools and government buildings.

From Los Angeles Times

Guatemalan soldiers stood guard at the school as bored teenagers played catch and soccer with a basketball.

From Los Angeles Times

A group of 10 to 15 police officers perpetually stand guard to ensure the cameras do not take photos of the victim's house.

From BBC

Suzanne understands the assignment of being Beckett’s wife, standing guard against anything that could detract from his higher mission.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• assure
• care for
• conserve
• cover
• cushion
• defend
• insulate
• keep
• look after
• preserve
• safeguard
• save
• secure
• shelter
• shield
• support