English Reference
noun · verb

bodyguard

n. · v.
US /ˈbɑdiˌɡɑɹd/ UK /bˈɒdɪɡˌɑːd/ body·guard UK spelling bodyguard's, bodyguard's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a person, often strong or armed, who stays close to a famous or important person to keep them safe.

    n.a person or group of persons employed to protect an individual from physical harm, kidnapping, or harassment.

    Simple

    The famous singer arrived at the airport surrounded by four large bodyguards.

    In context

    The diplomat's personal bodyguard remained vigilant throughout the press conference, scanning the crowd for any potential security threats.

    guardprotectorsecurity detail
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    v.to act as a guard for a person to keep them safe from danger.

    v.to serve as a bodyguard for an individual; to provide close-protection security services.

    Simple

    He spent three years bodyguarding high-ranking officials in dangerous areas.

    In context

    After retiring from the special forces, he was hired to bodyguard the CEO during her visit to the conflict zone.

    Usage

    This verb is transitive and requires a direct object.

So everything I do, there is a reason behind it.” Mr T became a personal bodyguard to the stars, including Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Steve McQueen and Ali.

The Guardian· 3 Sept 2026

Drawn Together tells the story of a ballet dancer falling in love with her bodyguard.

The Guardian· 11 Sept 2026

From body + guard.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated