safeguard

noun

1. something that serves as a protection or defense or that ensures safety.
2. a permit for safe passage.
3. a guard or convoy.
4. a mechanical device for ensuring safety.

verb (used with object)

5. to guard; protect; secure.

noun

1. a person or thing that ensures protection against danger, damage, injury, etc
2. a document authorizing safe-conduct

verb

3. (tr) to defend or protect

n.late 14c., “protection, safety,” from Middle French sauvegarde “safekeeping, safeguard” (13c.), from Old French salve, sauve (fem. of sauf; see safe (adj.)) + garde “a keeping” (see guard (n.)). Meaning “something that offers security from danger” is recorded from late 15c. v.mid-15c., from safeguard (n.). Related: Safeguarded; safeguarding.