sentry

noun

sen·​try ˈsen-trē 

plural sentries

: guard, watch

especially : a soldier standing guard at a point of passage (such as a gate)

Synonyms of sentry

• guard
• guardian
• custodian
• warden
• sentinel
• keeper

Examples of sentry in a Sentence

The general placed an armed sentry at the bridge.

a sentry posted to watch for intruders

Recent Examples on the Web

But a Marine sentry was spotted outside the West Wing most of the day Saturday, usually a sign the president is at work. —James Laporta, CBS News, 5 Apr. 2026

The soldiers would have stayed as sentries before and after the performance, symbolically guarding the legacy of Taiwan’s founder. —Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 13 Mar. 2026

Police had taped off several square blocks around Sixth Street, while local police and federal authorities, including Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agents, were at the site, according to Austin police officers serving as sentries. —Jack Myer, Los Angeles Times, 1 Mar. 2026

Police had taped off several square blocks around Sixth Street, while local police and federal agents, including ATF agents were at the site, according to Austin police serving as sentries. —ABC News, 1 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from obsolete sentry sanctuary, watchtower

First Known Use

1608, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing sentry

• sentry box
• stand sentry

Rhymes for sentry

• entry
• gentry
• complementary
• elementary

Kids Definition

sentry

noun

sen·​try ˈsen-trē 

plural sentries

: guard entry 1 sense 3a

especially : a soldier standing guard at a point of passage