patrol
puh-TROHL
/pəˈtroʊl/
To keep watch over an area by regularly traversing or traveling around it; (noun) the act of guarding an area.
In water rescue, patrol implies proactive monitoring of coastlines to detect distress before accidents happen.
The story behind the word. From French 'patrouiller', originally meaning 'to paddle about in mud', referring to guards trudging through marshy camp perimeters.
Word relationships
- policing: Policing emphasizes law enforcement, whereas patrol emphasizes monitoring and guarding an area.
- reconnaissance: Reconnaissance is military scouting for intelligence, while patrol is routine monitoring and defense.
- neglect: Failing to watch or protect an area.
Commonly confused with
- petrol: Petrol is gasoline fuel; patrol is guarding or monitoring an area.
Word family
- patrolling (verb): Actively guarding or surveying an area.
- patroller (noun): A person or craft performing a patrol.
Collocations
- coastal patrol
- patrol craft
- on patrol
- patrol route
Example sentences
- "Coast Guard vessels patrol coastal waters continuously to enforce safety laws and assist stranded craft." Coast Guard operations
Memory hook
PATROL = Pacing around protecting the WHOLE route. Regular guarding and monitoring sweep.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'petrol' (British English for gasoline).
Fun facts
- Coast Guard air patrols monitor ocean icebergs in the North Atlantic to prevent collisions like the Titanic.
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