security

security [si kyoor′ə tē]

n.

pl. securities [ME securite < L securitas < securus: see SECURE]

1. the state of being or feeling secure; freedom from fear, anxiety, danger, doubt, etc.; state or sense of safety or certainty

2. something that gives or assures safety, tranquillity, certainty, etc.; protection; safeguard

3.

a) protection or defense against attack, interference, espionage, etc. [funds for national security]

b) protection or defense against escape [a maximum-security prison]

c) procedures to provide such protection or defense

4. an organization or department whose task is protection or safety, esp. a private police force hired to patrol or guard a building, park, or other area [if you see an intruder, call security]

5.

a) something given as a pledge of repayment, fulfillment of a promise, etc.; guarantee

b) a person who agrees to make good the failure of another to pay, perform a duty, etc.; surety

6. any evidence of debt or ownership; esp., a stock certificate or bond usually used in pl.

adj.

of, designating, or serving as security [security precautions, security guard]