Pronunciation: [wˈɔːdz] (IPA) 
Wards is a plural noun that means a division or section of a larger area or community. The word is pronounced wɔːdz and spelled with the letters w-a-r-d-s. The vowel sound in the first syllable is represented by the letter "a" and pronounced as /ɔː/. Similarly, the second syllable contains the vowel sound /ə/ represented by the letter "e". It is important to note that the "r" in "wards" is silent and added for spelling purposes only.
Wards generally refers to either a noun or a verb, depending on the context. As a noun, wards refers to divisions or districts within a larger administrative area, such as a city, town, or hospital. The term is often used in political or administrative contexts to denote these smaller areas that make up a larger jurisdiction. In this sense, wards are typically designed to facilitate the equitable organization of resources or ensure efficient governance.
As a verb, wards refers to the action of guarding, protecting, or defending against something or someone. It commonly involves taking precautions or implementing measures to prevent harm or danger, either physically or metaphorically. Wards can be used to protect oneself, a place, or an object from potential threats or unwanted influences.
Furthermore, the term "wards" also has a specific legal connotation in the context of guardianship. A ward is a person, typically a minor or an individual deemed incapacitated, who is placed under the care and protection of a guardian. The guardian assumes responsibility over the ward's well-being, decision-making, and overall welfare.
In summary, the definition of "wards" encompasses both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to divisions or districts within a larger administrative area. As a verb, it denotes the action of guarding, protecting, or defending against potential harm or danger. Additionally, in legal terms, wards are individuals under the care of guardians.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "wards" has its origins in Middle English. It was derived from the Old English word "weard", which meant "guard, keeper, or protector". This Old English term is in turn related to the Gothic word "wardja", meaning "watchman" and the Old High German word "wartēn", which means "to guard". The word "wards" has evolved over time to adopt various meanings, including divisions or districts within a city, children under the care or protection of a guardian, or a protective or defensive posture.
