Custody — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈkə-stə-dē/ cus·to·dy

Meaning & Definition of Custody

Custody (noun)

  1. immediate charge and control (as over a ward or a suspect) exercised by a person or an authority; also, safekeeping

Custody (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. responsibility for the safety and well-being of someone or something

    "the government department having custody of all official state gifts"

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Custody

The most common words with a similar meaning to Custody:

Word Forms of Custody

Inflections: custodies

Origin & Etymology of Custody

Middle English custodie, from Latin custodia guarding, from custod-, custos guardian

First known use: 15th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Custody

Words & Phrases Containing Custody

Frequently Asked Questions about Custody

What does "Custody" mean?

"Custody" means immediate charge and control (as over a ward or a suspect) exercised by a person or an authority; also, safekeeping. As a noun, it is defined as: immediate charge and control (as over a ward or a suspect) exercised by a person or an authority; also, safekeeping.

What is another word for "Custody"?

Other words for "Custody" include care, custodianship, guardianship, keeping, safekeeping, trust and ward. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Custody" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Custody"?

There are 13 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Custody". Common alternatives include care, custodianship, guardianship, keeping, safekeeping, trust and ward.

How do you use "Custody" in a sentence?

Examples of "Custody" in a sentence: "the government department having custody of all official state gifts".

Is "Custody" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Custody" is a noun.

Is "Custody" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a C1-level word, "Custody" is typical of Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE), IELTS band 7.0–8.0, TOEFL iBT 95–113, PTE Academic 76–84, TOEIC Listening & Reading 945+. Advanced words like this are also useful for the GRE, SAT, GMAT, and LSAT.

How do you pronounce "Custody"?

"Custody" is pronounced /ˈkə-stə-dē/ and divided into syllables as cus·to·dy.

What is the origin of the word "Custody"?

"Custody" comes from Middle English custodie, from Latin custodia guarding, from custod-, custos guardian. First known use: 15th century.