Origin: Latin suffix -ance
Surveillance has 2 different meanings across 1 category:
close observation of a person or group (usually by the police)
"The detective decided to place an undercover agent inside the suspect's apartment to monitor their every move during the investigation."
Close observation of an individual or group; person or persons under suspicion.
"The security team initiated round-the-clock surveillance on the suspects after they were linked to the break-in."
In plain English: Surveillance is the act of keeping close watch on someone or something, usually to see what they are doing.
"The neighborhood installed security cameras to help with surveillance of the property."
Usage: Surveillance refers to the systematic monitoring of individuals, often by authorities or security personnel, rather than casual watching. It is commonly used in contexts involving investigations, public safety, or privacy concerns where sustained attention is applied to specific targets.
The word surveillance entered English directly from French, where it originally meant "a watching over" or supervision. Its roots trace back to the idea of staying awake and being watchful in Latin.