Guard

Guard (Object)

A guard is a physical defence against damage. For weapons this might include a crossguard for a sword or dagger, a rondel guard for a saw, ahlespiess or dagger or a more elablorate defense such as the basket hilts found on some rapiers or swords.

There are numerous variations on guards including swept hilts, proto mortuary, shell guards, bat wing and cup hilts.

Guards for Japanese swords or polearms are called tsuba.

Guard (Task)

Guarding someone or something is a measure to prevent damage or loss. In the past this has been done by humans and animals (particularly dogs although other animals are known).

Guarding may be a long term task (eg. in a prison) or a short term one (eg. "Guard my flank").

Guard (Occupation)

A guard is someone whose current primary task is to guard someone or thing. These range from a town guard to a royal guard.