Synonyms of surveillance

surveillance

noun

sər-ˈvā-lən(t)s 

1

as in stewardship

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 & Similar Words

• stewardship
• supervision
• oversight
• management
• control
• policing
• regulation
• monitoring
• leadership
• care
• guidance
• charge
• government
• superintendence
• administration
• observation
• superintendency
• headship
• direction
• observing
• observance
• protection
• running
• steering
• piloting
• rule
• auspices
• generalship
• reign
• guardianship
• trusteeship
• hand(s)
• shepherding
• tutelage
• aegis

2

as in watch

an act or period of watching for signs of activity, danger, or opportunity

government surveillance of suspected terrorists

Synonyms & Similar Words

• watch
• lookout
• inspection
• vigil
• supervision
• observation
• scrutiny
• observance

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of surveillance

Iranian authorities continue to enforce compulsory-veiling rules, including through prosecutions, business closures, vehicle impoundments and surveillance. — Pegah Banihashemi, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2026

From positions stretching from Japan to the Philippines, these weapons could threaten Chinese ships approaching key waterways while allied intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems provide targeting information. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 18 Sep. 2026

Investigators also reviewed surveillance footage from the weight room. — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Sep. 2026

The source of the facial recognition was a fake ID used by a female suspect who was captured on surveillance footage in incidents involving multiple Fargo-area banks, according to the complaint. — Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 17 Sep. 2026