protect

[pruh-tekt]

verb (used with object)

1. to defend or guard from attack, invasion, loss, annoyance, insult, etc.; cover or shield from injury or danger.

   Synonyms: shelter, screen
   Antonyms: attack

2. Economics.,  to guard (the industry or an industry of a nation) from foreign competition by imposing import duties.

3. to provide funds for the payment of (a draft, note, etc.).

verb (used without object)

1. to provide, or be capable of providing, protection.

   a floor wax that protects as well as shines.

protect

/ prəˈtɛkt /

verb

1. to defend from trouble, harm, attack, etc

2. economics to assist (domestic industries) by the imposition of protective tariffs on imports

3. commerce to provide funds in advance to guarantee payment of (a note, draft, etc)

Other Word Forms

• protectible adjective
• protectable adjective
• protectibility noun
• protectability noun
• overprotect verb (used with object)
• quasi-protected adjective
• semiprotected adjective
• unprotectable adjective
• unprotected adjective
• well-protected adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of protect¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin prōtēctus “covered in front,” past participle of prōtegere “to cover in front,” equivalent to prō- pro- ¹ + tegere “to cover” (akin to toga, thatch )

Word History and Origins

Origin of protect¹

C16: from Latin prōtegere to cover before, from _pro- ¹ + tegere to cover

Synonym Study

See defend.

Example Sentences

Criminal damage to listed buildings is on the increase, the body which preserves and protects Welsh heritage has said.

From BBC

The upcoming elections will not only be a test of Democratic messaging but also their ability to protect members who will be targets for pro-Israel groups like AIPAC.

From Salon

“And for him to say what he’s saying is beyond me, because I put my hope in him and he’s supposed to protect us.”

From Salon

Forty arts organisations in Wales have received £8m in funding in a move aimed at protecting venues amid financial challenges faced by the sector.

From BBC

I have been clear throughout this process that my priority has, and always will be, protecting my children and the strain I am putting them under through staying in post has become unbearable.

From BBC

Related Words

• assure 
• care for www.thesaurus.com
• conserve 
• cover 
• cushion 
• defend 
• insulate 
• keep 
• look after 
• preserve 
• safeguard 
• save 
• secure 
• shelter 
• shield 
• support