security
- 01 B1 Intermediate
the state of being safe from danger, harm, or crime.
the state of being free from danger or threat, especially regarding physical, national, or digital safety.
Simple“The hotel has high security to make sure all the guests feel safe.”
In context“National security remains a top priority for the government as they implement new protocols to protect digital infrastructure from cyberattacks.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general state of being safe.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
the people or systems that protect a place, like a building or airport.
the activities, personnel, or equipment involved in protecting a person, building, or organization.
Simple“Security stopped him at the gate because he didn't have his ID card.”
In context“Airport security has become significantly more stringent over the last decade, requiring passengers to undergo multiple layers of screening.”
UsageCan be used as a collective noun for the department or staff.
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
something valuable you give to a bank to prove you will pay back a loan.
an asset or property provided as a guarantee for the fulfilment of an obligation, such as a loan repayment.
Simple“He used his house as security for the business loan.”
In context“The lender required additional security before approving the mortgage, as the borrower's credit history was considered insufficient.”
UsageOften takes the preposition 'for'.
Teacher's tipIn everyday English, 'collateral' is a common synonym in banking contexts.
Synonyms - 04 C1 Advanced
a financial product that can be bought and sold, like a stock or a bond.
a tradeable financial asset, such as a share, bond, or option.
Simple“The company is planning to issue new securities to raise money for the project.”
In context“The regulatory body oversees the trading of government securities to ensure market stability and protect individual investors.”
UsageCommonly used in the plural form 'securities'.
Teacher's tipThis is a very specific professional sense; learners will mostly encounter it in business news or banking.
Synonyms - 05 B2 Upper Intermediate
a feeling of being happy and safe, without worrying about the future.
the state of being free from anxiety or apprehension; emotional or psychological stability.
Simple“Having a permanent job gives her a sense of financial security.”
In context“Children need a stable home environment to develop a lasting sense of emotional security and self-confidence.”
UsageOften used in phrases like 'job security' or 'emotional security'.
SynonymsAntonyms
Usage security forces · security concerns · security measures
From secure + -ity, from Middle English securite, from Middle French securité (modern sécurité), from Latin sēcūritās, from Latin sēcūrus (“safe, secure”), from sē- (“without”) + cūra (“care”); see cure. Similar to Latin sine cūrā (“without care, carefree”), which led to English sinecure. Doublet of surety.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.