B2nounformalcrimepolitics
US/sərˈveɪ.ləns/
UK/səˈveɪ.ləns/
the careful watching of a person, place or group, often by the police or the government
In context
The suspect had been under police surveillance for several months.
Critics worry that facial recognition cameras will lead to mass surveillance.
Hospitals increased disease surveillance after the first cases of the new virus.
Words that go with surveillance
noun + noun
- surveillance cameraA surveillance camera recorded the thief leaving the shop.
- government surveillanceMany apps now promise protection from government surveillance.
- video surveillanceThe parking lot is protected by 24-hour video surveillance.
- surveillance systemThe city spent millions on a new traffic surveillance system.
adjective + noun
- mass surveillanceThe court ruled that mass surveillance of phone calls was illegal.
- constant surveillanceLiving under constant surveillance changes how people behave.