Splashguard

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A structure designed to intercept and prevent liquid from scattering widely
2. A protective barrier made to stop liquids from spreading out and making a mess
3. An item placed to block and control the dispersal of splashing water or other fluids

Etymology: "Splashguard" is a plain compound: "splash" joined to "guard," with the meaning built directly from the two parts. "Splash" is a word of imitative origin, echoing the sound of liquid striking a surface, and "guard" comes from the Old French "garder," meaning to watch over or protect. Put together, the term names something that guards against a splash. The word works the same way as other English compounds where a protective noun is attached to the thing being kept off, such as "mudguard" for the panel that keeps road spray off a bicycle or car wheel. A splashguard is simply the everyday name for a barrier, panel, or shield placed to catch liquid before it spreads across a floor, wall, or machine.

Synonyms: mudguard, splash shield, fender, deflector, protector