Invigilator

Latin has always been a source-language with powerful resonances and an uncompromising spirit (well, mostly). Today, as I walked around, invigilating over the alchemical trials of my younger brethren, I was struck by the concept of invigilation itself.

'Invigilator' comes from the Latin invigilare, 'to watch over'; an invigilator is therefore 'one who watches over (others)'. The sense is that of one keeping a watch or a vigil in an alert state, so that malefactors (Latin, 'evil-makers') will be caught and punished, while the innocent (Latin, 'those lacking in wickedness') are protected. The job of an invigilator of examinations is therefore one of maintaining fairness - of maintaining an environment in which those inclined to cheat will be less so, and those who seek to do their best will be supported in doing so.

Think of it as being a shepherd, so that 'sheep may safely graze'.