police

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Sports Slang · Technical

n. the job of cleaning up a military area or camp.

n. the act of cleaning or maintaining order in a military facility or camp. Often used in the phrase 'police call'.

“The soldiers finished their morning police of the barracks before inspection.”

“After the field exercise, the sergeant ordered a thorough police of the grounds to ensure no equipment or litter remained.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to watch an area or a group of people to make sure they follow the rules.

v. to regulate, control, or monitor a specific area or activity to ensure compliance with laws or standards.

“Security guards police the building at night to keep it safe.”

“The agency was established to police the financial markets and prevent fraudulent trading activities.”

C1 · Advanced Informal

v. to tell other people how to behave or speak, even when you do not have the official power to do so.

v. to monitor and enforce social norms, language usage, or standards of behavior within a community, often used critically.

“You shouldn't try to police how your friends dress for the party.”

“Online communities often attempt to police the language of their members to maintain a specific political or social tone.”