Definition of wards:
(n) :
Protection, defence.
(n) :
The action of a watchman; monitoring, surveillance (usually in phrases keep ward etc.)
(n) :
Guardianship, especially of a child or prisoner.
(n) :
(fantasy) An enchantment or spell placed over a designated area or social unit, that prevents any tresspasser from entering; approaching; or even being able to locate said protected premises or demographic.
(n) :
(fencing) A guarding or defensive motion or position.
(n) :
A protected place, and by extension, a type of subdivision.