security

Definitions

1. noun

   The feeling of being safe from danger or worry.

   Examples

   • He locks the door every night for his own security.
   • The blanket gives the little girl a feeling of security.
   ≈safety
2. noun

   Something that protects you or keeps you safe.

   Examples

   • A strong lock is good security against thieves.
   • A password is a security for your account.
   ≈protection
3. noun

   The people who guard a place and keep order.

   Examples

   • Pamela works in security at the airport.
   • We went through security before boarding the plane.
4. noun

   Something given to make sure a promise is kept.

   Examples

   • The contract included a security to make sure of payment.
   • The deposit served as security for the rental.
   ≈guarantee≈surety≈pledge
5. noun

   A calm feeling without fear.

   Examples

   • Her calm voice gave him a sense of security.
   • The daily routine gave him a comforting feeling of security.
6. noun

   A share or bond that can be bought and sold.

   Examples

   • He invested in stocks and other securities.
   • The fund holds many different securities.
7. noun

   A paper that shows you own shares or bonds.

   Examples

   • She kept the security in a safe deposit box.
   • The bank issued a new security to replace the lost one.
8. noun

   Something valuable you give to a lender until you repay a loan.

   Examples

   • He offered his car as security for the loan.
   • The bank asked for security before giving the mortgage.
   ≈collateral
9. noun

   A promise or guarantee.

   Examples

   • They lent him money on no security except his word.
   • The landlord asked for security before handing over the keys.
10. noun

    Lack of care or too much confidence, in old-fashioned use.

    Examples

    • Through their security, the enemy grew strong.
    • Their security at the gate let the thief slip inside.