guardians

word · lemma: guardian

Definition

People who are legally or officially responsible for someone, especially children or those who cannot care for themselves. It can also refer to protectors or defenders in a general sense.

Usage & Nuances

'Guardians' is mostly formal/legal—referring to adults with legal responsibility for a child ('legal guardians'), but it can also mean general protectors (e.g., 'guardians of the environment'). Do not confuse with 'parents' (biological/foster parents), though sometimes parents are also guardians.

Example Sentences

The guardians signed the school's permission form.

basic

Children without parents are cared for by their guardians.

basic

The zoo's animals have dedicated guardians to protect them.

basic

My aunt and uncle became my guardians after my parents moved abroad.

natural

The forest’s ancient trees are seen as guardians of nature.

natural

All new students must have their guardians attend the orientation.

natural