surveillance

noun

sur·​veil·​lance sər-ˈvā-lən(t)s 

also

-ˈvāl-yən(t)s 

or

-ˈvā-ən(t)s 

: close watch kept over someone or something (as by a detective)

also : supervision see also immune surveillance

Synonyms

• care
• charge
• guidance
• headship
• oversight
• regulation
• stewardship
• superintendence
• superintendency
• supervision

Examples of surveillance in a Sentence

government surveillance of suspected terrorists

The bank robbery was recorded by surveillance video cameras.

Recent Examples on the Web

Diminishing the workforce will impair rapid response capabilities, surveillance and research capabilities that remain essential for managing future health threats that are nearly always present such as the bird flu and measles. —Omer Awan, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025

During Friday's hearing, surveillance footage from a hotel allegedly showing Combs beating an ex-girlfriend was discussed. —Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025

The suspects were captured on surveillance camera fleeing in a gold Toyota Camry with tinted windows and a sunroof. —Brittny Mejia, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2025

Thursday, March 6, before sunrise: Police say surveillance cameras captured five women and one man leaving the beach. —Michael Loria, USA TODAY, 13 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, from surveiller to watch over, from sur- + veiller to watch, from Old French veillier, from Latin vigilare, from vigil watchful — more at vigil

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing surveillance

• counter-surveillance
• electronic surveillance
• immune surveillance
• immunological surveillance
• keep under surveillance

Kids Definition

surveillance

noun

sur·​veil·​lance sər-ˈvā-lən(t)s 

 also  -ˈvāl-yən(t)s,

 or  -ˈvā-ən(t)s

: close watch

under surveillance

Medical Definition

surveillance

noun

sur·​veil·​lance

sər-ˈvā-lən(t)s also -ˈvāl-yən(t)s or -ˈvā-ən(t)s

: close and continuous observation or testing

serological surveillance

see immune surveillance