The word "regarded" refers to how someone or something is viewed or considered by others. It implies the sense of respect, esteem, or opinion that people have about a person, idea, or situation. For instance, if a scientist is regarded as a leading expert, it means that others see them as highly knowledgeable and trustworthy in their field.
The word "regarded" comes from the Middle English "regarden," which is a combination of "re-" (again) and "garden" (to watch over or guard). This implies a sense of observing or keeping an eye on something carefully over time, leading to the modern sense of forming an opinion.