C2noun formal 10K+

Warden

UK //ˈwɔː.dən// US //ˈwɔrdən// Pronunciation

Definition

An official in charge of a particular institution, especially a prison.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A person in charge of a place or organization, often in a prison.

Examples

• The warden enforced strict rules in the prison to maintain order.
• As the new warden, she implemented several reforms to improve inmate welfare.
• The university's warden ensured that students followed campus regulations.
• Meeting with the warden helped clarify the policies regarding inmate release.
• The warden's presence was felt throughout the facility during the inspections.

Usage notes

Used primarily in legal, correctional, or academic contexts. Not commonly used in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Warden sounds like 'warden' – imagine a guard watching over a prison.

Collocations

• prison warden
• school warden
• campus warden

Synonyms

• superintendent
• overseer
• guardian
• director
• chief

Antonyms

• inmate
• prisoner
• student

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'warden' as a generic term for any authority figure.
• Using 'warden' in informal contexts where a different term is more suitable.
• Omitting the context of a prison or institution when using 'warden'.