1. noun /wɔːd/
a) Protection, defence.
no gate they found, them to withhold, / Nor ward to wait at morne and euening late [...].
b) an enchantment or spell placed over a designated area or a social unit that prevents any tresspasser from approaching or entering a premises
2. verb /wɔːd/
they went to seeke their owne death, and rushed amidst the thickest of their enemies, with an intention, rather to strike, than to ward themselves.
They for vs fight, they watch and dewly ward, / And their bright Squadrons round about vs plant [...].
Wikipedia foundation.