It can be used in various contexts, such as:
* A person who protects someone or something: "The shomari kept watch over the village."
* Something that provides protection: "The fence acts as a shomari against intruders."
* A person who cares for or looks after someone: "The shomari took care of the sick child."
It's also used as a given name, especially in East African cultures, often for boys but sometimes for girls as well.