guarded

1. 1
   adjective

   Careful about what you say or show, so you do not give too much away.

   Like keeping a door only a little bit open, so not much can be seen.

   She gave a guarded answer when reporters asked about the deal.

   He stayed guarded about his plans for the future.

   Similarcautious, wary, reserved, careful, circumspect

   Oppositeopen, candid, frank, forthcoming

   Note
2. 2
   verb

   Past tense and past participle of guard. Use this form for something that already happened.

   The soldiers guarded the gate all night.

   Two dogs guarded the yard while the family slept.

   Note
3. 3
   adjective

   Kept safe and watched closely by someone.

   Like a treasure box that someone is always watching.

   The prisoner was kept in a guarded cell.

   The museum's most valuable painting sits in a guarded room.

   Similarprotected, patrolled, secure, watched

   Oppositeunprotected, undefended

4. 4
   adjective

   Describing a patient whose chances are fair but who needs close watching because things could still get worse.

   Like a forecast that says it might clear up, but a storm could still come, so you keep watching the sky.

   The doctors said her condition was guarded but hoped she would improve.

   After surgery his condition stayed guarded for several days.

   Similaruncertain

   Note
5. 5
   adjective

   Having an added part that protects, like the guard on a sword or helmet.

   Like a knife that has a small barrier so your hand does not slip onto the blade.

   The knight carried a guarded sword with a wide metal crosspiece.

   He wore a guarded helmet that shielded most of his face.

   Note

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