guardar

Guardar is a Spanish verb with multiple related meanings centered on keeping, protecting, or saving. It can denote keeping something in one’s possession, preserving its state, storing it away, or saving data or money.

As a transitive verb, it requires a direct object: guardar la ropa (to put away clothes), guardar un archivo or guardar cambios (to save a file or to save changes), guardar un secreto (to keep a secret), or guardar dinero (to save money). In computing, the sense of saving is common, often phrased as “guardar” or “guardar como” (save as). In everyday speech, it can also mean to retain information, rules, or traditions (guardar las tradiciones).

Reflexive use and fixed expressions expand its range. Guardarse can express refraining from something (guardarse de hacer algo) or protecting oneself (guardarse del frío). Common expressions include guardar silencio (to remain silent), guardar distancia (to keep one’s distance), and guardar un secreto (to keep a secret).

Etymology and related terms: guardar shares cognates with other Romance languages, such as Portuguese guardar and French garder, and belongs to a family of verbs linked to guarding or keeping. The term is widely used across Spanish-speaking regions, with nuanced meanings depending on context.

See also: conservar, proteger, guardarropa, salvaguardar.