Escort: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
February 17, 2025

1. Escort (noun): A person, group, or vehicle accompanying another for protection, guidance, or companionship.
2. Escort (verb): To accompany someone or something as a guide or protector.
3. Escort (noun): A companion hired to provide company, often in a social context.

The term "escort" embodies diverse meanings, ranging from protective accompaniment to professional companionship. Its usage extends across various formal and informal contexts, demonstrating its flexibility and importance in communication. Continue exploring the term "escort" to better understand its definitions, applications, and nuances.

"Escort" Definition: What Does "Escort" Mean?

"Escort" is a versatile word with multiple meanings encompassing protective and social dimensions. Here is a deeper dive into its definitions and relevance.

Definition of "Escort": Protection and Guidance

As a noun, "escort" refers to a person, group, or vehicle that accompanies another to provide safety, guidance, or ceremonial honor. This usage is often seen in formal or security contexts.

Definition of "Escort": Act of Accompanying

As a verb, "escort" means to accompany someone or something, typically for protective, guiding, or assisting purposes. This action emphasizes a sense of responsibility and care.

Definition of "Escort": Professional Companion

"Escort" can also describe a person hired to provide companionship, often for social events or engagements. This meaning underscores its role in enhancing social interaction.

Parts of Speech

"Escort" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it represents the individual or group providing accompaniment. As a verb, it describes the act of accompanying. These dual functions enable the term to adapt to various contexts, from formal to casual usage.

How to Pronounce "Escort"?

Pronouncing "escort" correctly ensures clarity, especially in professional and social contexts. The stress can fall on either the first or second syllable, depending on regional accents. The "es" sounds like "ess" in "essential," while "cort" rhymes with "court." Both pronunciations are widely accepted.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˈɛs.kɔːrt/ or /ɪˈskɔːrt/

Synonyms of "Escort": Other Ways to Say "Escort"

Synonyms for "escort" provide alternative expressions to convey similar ideas of accompaniment or guidance.

  • Accompaniment
  • Chaperone
  • Guard
  • Companion
  • Guide
  • Convoy
  • Protector
  • Partner
  • Attendant
  • Bodyguard

Antonyms of "Escort": Other Ways to Say "Escort"

Antonyms highlight contrasting concepts to "escort," such as absence or independence.

  • Abandon
  • Desert
  • Leave
  • Ignore
  • Neglect
  • Exclude
  • Solo
  • Independent
  • Dismiss
  • Forsake

Examples of "Escort" in a Sentence

Using "escort" in sentences showcases its adaptability across different scenarios.

1. The police provided an escort for the visiting dignitary.
2. He offered to escort her home after the event.
3. A military escort accompanied the convoy through the dangerous area.
4. The ambassador arrived with a formal escort to the ceremony.
5. The guide escorted the tourists to the historical site.
6. She hired an escort for the gala to ensure she had company.
7. The firefighters were escorted through the crowded street by police.
8. He acted as an escort for his younger sister at the wedding.
9. The bodyguards escorted the celebrity through the crowded venue.
10. A small fleet of ships served as an escort to the naval carrier.

Frequency of Use

The word "escort" is moderately used in formal, security, and social contexts. Its frequency is higher in settings involving safety, guidance, or professional companionship. The usage trends highlight its importance in both personal and institutional scenarios.

Variants of "Escort"

While "escort" itself is a primary form, related terms and variations adapt its meaning for specific uses.

1. Escorting (verb): The act of accompanying someone.
2. Escorted (verb): Past tense of "escort."
3. Escortee (noun): The person being escorted.

Related Terms to "Escort"

Related terms broaden the understanding of "escort" in its various applications.

1. Chaperone
2. Convoy
3. Accompaniment
4. Attendant
5. Guide
6. Protector
7. Companion
8. Bodyguard
9. Guardian
10. Sentry

Etymology: History and Origins of "Escort"

The word "escort" originates from the Italian word scorta, meaning "a guide" or "guardian," which in turn derives from the Latin excurrere, meaning "to run out." Initially associated with military contexts, where protection was paramount, the term evolved to include broader applications of accompaniment, guidance, and companionship.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Escort"

Several derivatives and compounds of "escort" reflect its versatile usage:

1. Escorting: The act of providing accompaniment.
2. Escortee: The individual who is accompanied.
3. Escort service: A professional service providing companionship or protection.

Common Misspellings of "Escort"

Misspellings of "escort" often occur due to phonetic similarities. Here are some common ones:

1. Escourt
2. Esccort
3. Esort

10 Idioms Similar to "Escort"

Idioms related to "escort" capture themes of guidance, companionship, and protection.

1. Take under one's wing
2. Walk someone through
3. Show the ropes
4. Lead the way
5. Walk hand in hand
6. Be someone's shadow
7. Stand guard
8. Ride shotgun
9. Lend a helping hand
10. Keep company

10 Common Questions About "Escort"

Questions about "escort" address its definitions and practical usage.

1. What is the basic meaning of "escort"?

An "escort" is someone who accompanies another for protection, guidance, or companionship.

2. Can "escort" be used as a verb?

Yes, as a verb, it means to accompany someone or something as a guide or protector.

3. What is an "escort service"?

An "escort service" is a professional service offering companionship or assistance for social or protective purposes.

4. Is "escort" always formal?

No, it can be used in casual settings, such as offering to "escort" a friend home.

5. What is the role of a military escort?

A military escort provides protection and ensures the safe passage of individuals or goods.

6. How does "escort" differ from "chaperone"?

While both involve accompaniment, "chaperone" often implies supervision, whereas "escort" emphasizes protection or guidance.

7. What is the historical origin of "escort"?

It originates from Italian and Latin terms for guidance and running out to protect or accompany.

8. Can "escort" refer to vehicles?

Yes, vehicles can serve as escorts, such as in a convoy for dignitaries or cargo.

9. Is the term "escort" gender-specific?

No, "escort" is gender-neutral and applies to anyone providing accompaniment or protection.

10. What does "escortee" mean?

An "escortee" is a person who is being accompanied or protected by an escort.

Conclusion

An "escort" is someone or something that provides accompaniment for protection, guidance, or companionship. Understanding the term enriches communication in both formal and social contexts. Explore more word definitions to expand your vocabulary and comprehension.

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