A more thorough explanation:

A ward of the state is a person who is under the care and protection of the government. This can include minors who have been assigned a permanent guardian by a juvenile court, or those who are under the supervision of a juvenile court but still have their parental rights intact.

For example, a child who has been removed from their home due to abuse or neglect and placed in foster care would be considered a ward of the state. Similarly, a juvenile offender who is serving time in a state-run facility would also be considered a ward of the state.

The term "ward of the state" can also refer to a seaman who is considered a beneficiary in contractual matters, as well as a territorial division in a city for purposes of city government.

Overall, a ward of the state is someone who is in need of protection and support, and who is being provided for by the government.