security shack

[/sɪˈkjʊrɪti ʃæk/]
nounpl: security shacks
guarita de segurança
1. A small, usually wooden or metal structure located at the entrance of a property, building, or gated area where security personnel are stationed to monitor access and check visitors
The security shack at the entrance to the condominium is staffed 24 hours a day.
A guarita de segurança na entrada do condomínio tem funcionários 24 horas por dia.
2. A modest protective booth used by security guards to shelter from weather while maintaining surveillance of a premises
The guard spent his shift inside the security shack watching the parking lot.
O guarda passou seu turno dentro da guarita de segurança observando o estacionamento.
Security shacks are ubiquitous in Brazilian residential and commercial properties, especially in gated communities (condomínios fechados) and shopping centers. They represent a visible sign of security infrastructure and are a common feature of urban life in Brazil. In the USA, they are found primarily at entrances to gated communities, corporate campuses, and secured facilities.
NYC Slang
guard shack; booth
Synonyms / Sinônimos
guard shacksecurity boothguard boothgatehousecheckpoint

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
guarita de segurança
Most common and formal term used throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
guarita
Often shortened to just 'guarita' in informal speech
São Paulo
guarita de segurança / cabine de segurança
Both terms are used interchangeably in business and residential settings
Portugal
cabine de segurança / caseta de vigilância
Portuguese uses different terminology; 'cabine' is more common in European Portuguese

Related Words

security guardentrancesurveillancecheckpointgated communityaccess control

Related Idioms & Phrases

man the security shack - estar de prontidão na guarita
posted at the security shack - de plantão na guarita de segurança
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