Wardship
/ˈwɔːrdʃɪp/
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Legal Term
The word 'wardship' is mainly used in legal contexts to describe a guardianship situation. 
The court established a wardship for the minor following the hearing.
Pro Tip 2/3Protection Implication
'Wardship' implies that the ward is being protected by the guardian who has their welfare in mind. 
The judge's top priority was the child's safety during the wardship.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Parental
'Wardship' indicates a legal arrangement, not a biological parental relationship. 
Despite not being his parent, she had wardship over the teenager.