Sentry

/ˈsɛntri/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A soldier stationed to keep guard or to control access to a place.

The sentry stood at the entrance, ensuring that no unauthorized personnel could enter.

A person or thing that watches or keeps guard.

The sentry at the old castle was vigilant, watching for any signs of intruders.

A guard, especially one whose job is to protect a specific location.

He was assigned as a sentry at the military base, where he monitored the perimeter for threats.

From Middle English 'sentrie', derived from Old French 'sentinelle', from Latin 'sentire' meaning 'to feel or perceive'.

on sentry duty

Refers to the responsibility of guarding a specific location.

sentry box

A small shelter where a sentry stands.

sentinel

A person or thing that watches or stands guard.

guard

A person responsible for the supervision of a place or person.

watch

To look at or observe attentively.

A term used to refer to someone who is overly cautious or protective.

He's such a sentry when it comes to his younger siblings.

Used to describe someone who monitors social situations closely.

At the party, she was the sentry, making sure everyone was having fun.