English Reference
noun · verb

warden

n. · v.
US /ˈwɔɹdən/ UK /wˈɔːdən/ war·den UK spelling wardens

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a person who is in charge of a building or a specific area, like a college or a nature park.

    n.the chief administrative officer or governing official of an institution, such as a college, hospital, or guild.

    Simple

    The college warden met with the students to discuss the new housing rules.

    In context

    As the warden of the historic guildhall, he was responsible for both the preservation of the archives and the management of daily operations.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate American English Law

    n.the person in charge of a prison.

    n.the chief administrative official of a correctional facility or prison.

    Simple

    The warden ordered a full inspection of the prison cells after the incident.

    In context

    The prison warden implemented a new vocational training programme designed to reduce recidivism rates among the inmate population.

    Usage

    In British English, the equivalent term is usually 'prison governor'.

    Teacher's tip

    Learners should note that 'warden' is the standard term for this role in the United States, while 'governor' is used in the UK.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.an official who makes sure people follow specific laws, like those for hunting or parking.

    n.an official charged with the enforcement of specific regulations or the protection of resources.

    Simple

    A game warden checked our fishing licenses at the lake.

    In context

    Traffic wardens were out in force this morning, issuing fines to vehicles parked illegally along the main thoroughfare.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced LiteraryArchaic

    n.a person who guards or watches over something.

    n.a guard, watchman, or keeper responsible for security or oversight.

    Simple

    The silent warden of the tower watched the horizon for any sign of the returning fleet.

    In context

    In the epic poem, the ancient warden of the gates refuses entry to any who cannot answer his riddle.

  5. 05 C2 Proficiency Formal

    v.to do the work of a warden or to look after a place.

    v.to perform the duties of a warden; to supervise or monitor a specific area or group.

    Simple

    He spent his summer wardening at a remote bird sanctuary in the north.

    In context

    The volunteers were tasked to warden the nesting grounds during the peak breeding season to prevent accidental disturbance by tourists.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated