caretaker

noun

care·​tak·​er ˈker-ˌtā-kər 

1

: one that gives physical or emotional care and support

served as caretaker to the younger children

2

: one that takes care of the house or land of an owner who may be absent

3

: one temporarily fulfilling the function of office

a caretaker government

caretake

ˈker-ˌtāk 

verb

caretaking

ˈker-ˌtā-kiŋ 

noun

Synonyms

• custodian
• keeper
• janitor
• warden
• guardian

Examples of caretaker in a Sentence

We have a caretaker who watches the place for us while we are away.

hired a caretaker for the mansion during the winter months

Recent Examples on the Web

The property’s fifth bedroom is found in the separate guesthouse—perfect for hosting friends, family, or a live-in caretaker. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 18 July 2025

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch The legendary comedian brings his BAFTA-winning experience to the role of Hogwarts' grim caretaker. —Marni Rose McFall Orton, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 July 2025

Boss Queen Cutie Pie Bouncing Pig Spicy Baby Answer: Totally unfazed by her birthday, Thailand’s internet star marked the day by wandering around her enclosure, taking a few naps and chewing her caretaker’s knees while being hosed down. —Jeremy Mikula, NBC news, 12 July 2025

But given that his caretaker is busy learning how complex saving the world can be, a certain amount of neglect is inevitable. —Alison Willmore, Vulture, 8 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for caretaker

• automaker
• boilermaker
• cabinetmaker
• coffeemaker
• troublemaker
• undertaker
• blackacre
• clockmaker
• dressmaker
• filmmaker
• homemaker
• icebreaker

Kids Definition

caretaker

noun

care·​tak·​er ˈke(ə)r-ˌtā-kər 

ˈka(ə)r-

: one that takes care of buildings or land often for an absent owner