Synonyms for

Sentinel

Verb / ˈsentʌnʌl / Another word for sentinel — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A person or thing that watches or stands as if watching.

Synonyms & similar words

lookoutman sentry watch picket lookout scout spotter guard watchman sentry lookout watcher observer protector defender keeper custodian patrol scout spotter surveillance vigilance monitor warden police picket post

Synonyms by register

Formal

guard watchman sentry lookout

Informal

guard watcher lookout

Literary

warden custodian vigil

Antonyms

absent careless negligent unconcerned unwatchful unvigilant

Common collocations

  • standing sentinel
  • act as a sentinel
  • human sentinel
  • digital sentinel
  • silent sentinel
  • outer sentinel
  • lone sentinel
  • security sentinel

Word family

noun sentinel
adjective sentinel-like

Usage note

A sentinel is typically a person or thing that stands guard. It can also refer to a biological structure that monitors or protects.

Example sentences

  1. The sentinel barked at anyone who tried to enter the property.
  2. The sentinel kept a watchful eye on the prisoners.
  3. The soldier stood as a sentinel at the entrance to the camp.
  4. The lighthouse serves as a sentinel for ships at sea.
  5. The sentinel scanned the horizon for any signs of danger.

Quotes

  • A sentinel at the gate is less important than a sentinel in the mind. - Winston Churchill
  • The sentinel of the past must be a sentinel of the future. - Carlyle
  • The sentinel in the watch-tower of liberty must be vigilant, active, and brave. - Douglass

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