ward in WordNet English dictionary

1. a division of a prison (usually consisting of several cells)
   cellblock  ward 
   
2. block forming a division of a hospital (or a suite of rooms) shared by patients who need a similar kind of care
   "they put her in a 4-bed ward"
   ward  hospital ward 
   
3. a district into which a city or town is divided for the purpose of administration and elections
   ward 
   
4. a person who is under the protection or in the custody of another
   ward 
   

1. watch over or shield from danger or harm; protect
   "guard my possessions while I'm away"
   guard  ward