patrol
puh-TROHL
/pəˈtroʊl/
To regularly guard an area or building by walking or traveling around it; a person or group sent to patrol an area.
Implies regular, systematic movement for observation, security, or enforcement.
The story behind the word. The word 'patrol' comes from the French 'patrouiller,' meaning 'to tramp about in the mud,' or 'to go on a round.' It originally referred to soldiers walking through muddy camps. Over time, it evolved to mean a systematic round of guarding or observation, losing its muddy connotation but keeping the sense of purposeful movement.
Word relationships
- guard: To protect, often by standing watch in one place.
- monitor: To observe and check the progress or quality of something over a period of time.
- surveil: To keep a close watch on someone or something, especially for intelligence or law enforcement.
- neglect: To fail to properly care for something.
Word family
- patroller (noun): One who patrols.
Collocations
- border patrol
- police patrol
- patrol boat
- on patrol
- foot patrol
Idioms & expressions
- on patrol
Example sentences
- "Coast Guard vessels regularly patrol the territorial waters to deter illegal fishing and smuggling." Describing security operations.
- "The night patrol reported no unusual activity in the sector, ensuring the city's quiet slumber." Referring to a group performing the action.
Memory hook
A PATROL follows a PATH or ROUTE to keep watch. Path route watch
When not to use
Do not use 'patrol' for random or aimless wandering; it implies a purpose.
Fun facts
- The term 'patrol car' became common with the rise of motorized police forces in the early 20th century.
Related words
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