guardrail
/ˈɡɑrdˌreɪl/
noun
- A railing or barrier placed along the edge of a road, bridge, or staircase to prevent vehicles or people from falling off.
- The car hit the guardrail on the mountain road and came to a stop.
- Workers installed a new guardrail along the bridge to improve safety.
- Always hold the guardrail when walking down steep stairs.
- Something that prevents someone from making a serious mistake or going too far.
- The company's strict rules act as a guardrail against unethical behavior.
- His financial advisor served as a guardrail, stopping him from making risky investments.
- Parents often set guardrails for their teenagers to keep them safe.