the action of going around or through an area, building, etc. at regular intervals for security purposes, a group of people, vehicles, or vessels sent out to keep watch over an area

foot patrol, patrol car, coastal patrol

Formal and Informal Expressions of patrol

In different contexts, you can replace 'patrol' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'surveillance, monitoring' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'watch, keep an eye on' is a commonplace synonym.

patrol: Explore its Definition & Usage

patrol Definition

1the action of going around or through an area, building, etc. at regular intervals for security purposes
2a group of people, vehicles, or vessels sent out to keep watch over an area

Using patrol: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "patrol" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The police patrol the streets to ensure public safety.
Example
The border patrol intercepted a group of illegal immigrants.
Example
The security guard made his rounds on patrol throughout the building.

patrol Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for patrol

Antonyms for patrol

Phrases with patrol

foot patrol
a group of people who walk around an area to keep watch over it
Example
The neighborhood watch organized a foot patrol to deter burglars.
patrol car
a vehicle used by police officers to patrol a specific area
Example
The patrol car chased after the speeding vehicle.
coastal patrol
a group of vessels that monitor a country's coastal waters for security purposes
Example
The navy deployed a coastal patrol to prevent illegal fishing in the territorial waters.

Origins of patrol

from French 'patrouiller', meaning 'to patrol'

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Summary: patrol in Brief

The term 'patrol' [pəˈtrəʊl] refers to the act of regularly monitoring an area for security purposes. It can be done by individuals or groups, such as the police or border patrol. Examples include 'The security guard made his rounds on patrol throughout the building.' 'Patrol' extends into phrases like 'foot patrol,' and 'patrol car,' denoting different modes of surveillance.