chaperon
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈʃæp.ə.roʊn/
KK: /ˈʃæpəˌroʊn/
noun
Definition
A person who accompanies and supervises young people in social situations to ensure proper behavior.
Example
The school hired a chaperon to supervise the students during the field trip.
Conversation
Are you going to the dance this weekend?
Yeah, but I need to find a chaperon first.
Why do you need a chaperon?
My parents want someone to supervise us, you know?
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
escort
guardian
supervisor
Antonyms
follower
neglecter
abandoner
transitive verb
Definition
To accompany and supervise someone, especially a young person, to ensure their safety and proper behavior.
Example
She was asked to chaperon the students on their field trip.
Tense Forms
Past: chaperoned
Past Participle: chaperoned
Conversation
Are you going to chaperon the school trip next week?
Yeah, I volunteered to help out with the kids.
That's great! It must be fun to chaperon them around the museum.
Root Explanation
Chaperon → It originates from Old French *chaperon*, meaning a hood or cap. The word refers to a person who accompanies and supervises another, much like a hood or cap provides protection.
Memory Tip
Imagine a protective 'hood' ('chaperon') that keeps someone safe while they are accompanied by another person.
Visually Confused Words
hapteron
charon
unchaperoned
chevron
cheapen
charbon
champer
caprone