A person whose job is to guard, supervise, or care for something or someone. Typical examples are prison guards or animal keepers at the zoo.
example
Der Wärter fütterte die Löwen pünktlich um 14 Uhr.
The keeper fed the lions promptly at 2 p.m.
Usage tips
Word family
'Wärter' (keeper/guard) is derived from the old verb 'warten' in the sense of 'to care for, guard, supervise.' A 'Wärter' is therefore a person who performs a supervisory or care-taking role.
EXAMPLE
Der Leuchtturmwärter sorgte für die Sicherheit der Schiffe.
The lighthouse keeper ensured the safety of the ships.
Use in compounds
The word 'Wärter' (keeper/guard) is very often used as the second part of a compound noun to specify the profession. The first word says what or who is being guarded or cared for.
EXAMPLE
Ein Tierwärter im Zoo hat eine große Verantwortung.
An animal keeper at the zoo has a great responsibility.
Professional context
The term 'Wärter' (keeper/guard) usually describes an official or professional role. It is used for people with a formal task of guarding, caring for, or supervising.
EXAMPLE
Der Parkwärter achtet darauf, dass niemand Müll hinterlässt.
The park ranger makes sure that no one leaves trash behind.
Compare with
near_synonym · confusable
Wärter vs Betreuer
supervisor / caregiver / guardian
'der Betreuer' and 'der Wärter' can both refer to a person who watches over others. The most important difference is the focus. A 'Betreuer' looks after people, supports them, and is responsible for their care or supervision. A 'Wärter' is more likely to guard or supervise something or someone, for example in a prison or at the zoo. That is why 'Betreuer' often sounds more helpful and personal, while 'Wärter' sounds more strongly connected to control or guarding. The words can be confused because both have to do with supervision. When it is about help and care, 'Betreuer' usually fits. When it is about guarding or animals at the zoo, 'Wärter' is more precise.
Wärter
Der Wärter kontrolliert jeden Morgen die Türen im Gefängnis.
The guard checks the doors in the prison every morning.
Betreuer
Im Ferienlager hilft der Betreuer den Kindern beim Essen und bei den Spielen.
At the holiday camp, the caregiver helps the children with meals and games.