Household troops are a group of soldiers assigned to protect important individuals or institutions. There are several synonyms for household troops that may be used interchangeably. These terms include palace guard, imperial guard, royal guard, and personal guard. Each of these synonyms emphasizes the protective nature of these troops and their close connection to their designated protectee. The palace guard especially highlights the role of these troops in safeguarding royal residences. Imperial guard is a synonym favored among historical contexts, particularly when referring to guards under the holy Roman Empire. Royal guard and personal guard denote the troops as being directly linked to a particular individual, often with higher rank and responsibilities.