* Noun: This is the most common use. It refers to a person who protects or cares for another person.
* Example: "The guardian of the child was very strict."
* Adjective: It can describe something that protects or safeguards.
* Example: "The guardian angels watched over the city."
* Verb: It can mean to protect or care for something. This is less common.
* Example: "She guarded the secret closely."
So, the part of speech depends on its function in the sentence.