surveillance

surveillance

noun

Definition of SURVEILLANCE

1

the duty or function of watching or guarding for the sake of proper direction or control <a neutral country charged with the surveillance of the post-war rebuilding effort>

Synonyms care, charge, guidance, headship, oversight, regulation, stewardship, superintendence, superintendency, surveillance

Related Words monitoring, observance, observation, observing, policing; administration, control, direction, generalship, hand(s), management, running; leadership, piloting, shepherding, steering; government, reign, rule; aegis (also egis), auspices, guardianship, protection, trusteeship, tutelage

2

an act or period of watching for signs of activity, danger, or opportunity <government surveillance of suspected terrorists>

Synonyms lookout, surveillance, watch

Related Words observance, observation, supervision; inspection, scrutiny