noun
A person entrusted with guarding, managing, or looking after something, such as a building, collection, or institution. Often used in formal or legal contexts.
博物館の監守人が展示品の安全を確認した。
The museum custodian checked the safety of the exhibits.
彼はその屋敷の監守人として雇われた。
He was hired as the custodian of the mansion.
守衛 refers specifically to a security guard or watchman, focusing on protection, whereas 監守人 implies broader custodial responsibilities including management and care.
Compound of 監 (supervise, oversee), 守 (protect, guard), and 人 (person). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination naturally yields the meaning of a person who oversees and guards.