VocabDictionary

wards

/wɔːrdz/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Separate rooms or divisions in a hospital for different classes of patients, or administrative districts of a city or town for voting and local government.

Example Sentences:
  • The hospital has several specialized wards, including pediatric and maternity units.
  • Local councilors are elected to represent the various wards of the city.
2.verb

Prevents, deflects, or averts something dangerous or undesirable (usually followed by 'off').

Example Sentences:
  • She wears a garlic amulet because she believes it wards off evil spirits.
  • Regular exercise wards off many chronic health conditions.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “wards”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from Old English 'weard' meaning 'keeping, guarding, or protection', of Germanic origin. Over time, the noun evolved to represent guarded places (like hospital divisions or administrative districts) and people under guardianship, while the verb form 'wards' (usually with 'off') means to guard against or deflect.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Associate 'wards' with 'guarding': hospital wards guard patients' health, electoral wards guard local votes, and warding off guards against danger.

Frequently Asked Questions About “wards

1. What is the meaning of “wards” in English?

In English, wards (noun) is defined as: “Separate rooms or divisions in a hospital for different classes of patients, or administrative districts of a city or town for voting and local government.”.

2. How do you use “wards” in a sentence?

The hospital has several specialized wards, including pediatric and maternity units.

3. What are English synonyms of “wards”?

Common synonyms include:districts,precincts,chambers,deflects,repels

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “wards”?

Derived from Old English 'weard' meaning 'keeping, guarding, or protection', of Germanic origin. Over time, the noun evolved to represent guarded places (like hospital divisions or administrative districts) and people under guardianship, while the verb form 'wards' (usually with 'off') means to guard against or deflect.