custodian

noun

cus·​to·​di·​an ˌkə-ˈstō-dē-ən How to pronounce custodian (audio)
Synonyms of custodiannext
: one that guards and protects or maintains
especially : one entrusted with guarding and keeping property or records or with custody or guardianship of prisoners or inmates
custodianship noun

Examples of custodian in a Sentence

the custodian made his usual rounds of the building to make sure that everything was OK served as custodian of the prisoner until he could be turned over to federal authorities
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With this arrangement, a custodian manages purchases, transportation, physical storage, and tax compliance requirements. Nick Perry, USA Today, 9 Feb. 2026 The union noted that SEIU Local 1021, which represents school clerks and custodians, has also called a sympathy strike. Carlos E. Castañeda, CBS News, 6 Feb. 2026 The first stop was Melin Tregwynt, a historic woolen mill founded in 1841 that is still one of the most influential custodians of the Welsh textile tradition. Stefania Conrieri, Vanity Fair, 5 Feb. 2026 February is also every elementary school custodian’s least favorite month. Mark Glende, Twin Cities, 1 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for custodian

Word History

First Known Use

1602, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of custodian was in 1602

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Custodian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/custodian. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

custodian

noun
cus·​to·​di·​an ˌkəs-ˈtōd-ē-ən How to pronounce custodian (audio)
1
: someone who guards and protects or takes care of something for another person
2
: someone who cleans and takes care of a building : janitor sense 2

Legal Definition

custodian

noun
cus·​to·​di·​an
: an individual entrusted with guarding and keeping property or having custody of a person: as
a
: the warden of a prison
b
: a person given custody of a child by court order
c
: a person named to manage a child's property under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act
d
: a person or entity appointed by a bankruptcy court to take charge of the debtor's property for purposes of administration
custodianship noun

More from Merriam-Webster on custodian

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