security

Etymology

secure + -ity, from Middle English securite, from Middle French securité (modern sécurité), from Latin sēcūritās, from Latin sēcūrus (“safe, secure”), from se- (“without”) + cura (“care”); see cure. Similar to Latin sine cura (“without care, carefree”), which led to English sinecure. Doublet of surety.

noun

1. (uncountable) The condition of not being threatened, especially physically, psychologically, emotionally, or financially.
   Chad always carries a gun for his own security.
   The pink blanket gives little Mary lots of security.
2. (countable) Something that secures.
3. An organization or department responsible for providing security by enforcing laws, rules, and regulations as well as maintaining order.
   Pamela works in security.
   The threat of terrorism to the British lies in the overreaction to it of British governments. Each one in turn clicks up the ratchet of surveillance, intrusion and security. Each one diminishes liberty. 2012-12-14, Simon Jenkins, “We mustn't overreact to North Korea boys' toys”, in The Guardian Weekly, volume 188, number 2, page 23
   From the ground, Colombo’s port does not look like much. Those entering it are greeted by wire fences, walls dating back to colonial times and security posts. For mariners leaving the port after lonely nights on the high seas, the delights of the B52 Night Club and Stallion Pub lie a stumble away. 2013-06-08, “The new masters and commanders”, in The Economist, volume 407, number 8839, page 52
4. (law) Something that secures the fulfillment of an obligation or law.
5. (law) Freedom from apprehension.
6. (finance, often in the plural) A tradeable financial asset, such as a share of stock.ᵂ
7. (finance) Proof of ownership of stocks, bonds or other investment instruments.
8. (finance) Property etc. temporarily relinquished to guarantee repayment of a loan.
9. A guarantee.
10. (obsolete) Carelessness; negligence.