Chaperone

/ˈʃæp.ə.roʊn/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who accompanies and supervises a group, especially young people, during an event or activity.

The school hired a chaperone to supervise the students during the field trip.

A person attending a social event with another person to provide supervision or guidance.

She brought her aunt as a chaperone to the dance to ensure she would be safe.

verb

To accompany and supervise a group of people.

She volunteered to chaperone the students at the science fair.

To serve as a chaperone to someone.

He was asked to chaperone his younger brother on the trip.

From French 'chaperon', meaning 'hood', originally referring to a hooded cape worn by women, and later to someone who provides a protective covering.

dance chaperone

A person who supervises during a dance or social gathering.

field trip chaperone

An adult responsible for the safety and behavior of children during a field trip.

party chaperone

An individual who oversees a party to ensure proper conduct.

escort

A person who accompanies another for protection or companionship.

guardian

A person who protects or defends.

A fun-killer

He's such a chaperone; he doesn't let us do anything fun.

Someone who spoils the mood

We can't have a surprise party with a chaperone around.