Meaning & Definition of word "Protect"

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    Protect

    /prəˈtɛkt/

    verb:

    • 1. to keep safe from harm or injury
      • Example: We need to protect the environment for future generations.
    • 2. to provide shelter or support to safeguard someone or something
      • Example: Parents should protect their children from negative influences.
    • 3. to guard or defend someone or something against attack or damage
      • Example: The bodyguard was hired to protect the celebrity from potential threats.
    • 4. to prevent something from getting lost, damaged, or destroyed
      • Example: You should protect your personal information online.
    • 5. to ensure the safety and well-being of someone or something
      • Example: Laws are in place to protect workers' rights.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'protectus', past participle of 'protegere', meaning 'to cover in front of'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    protect and serve:

    a motto referring to the duties of police officers

    protect one's interests:

    to take action to preserve or promote one's own goals

    a protective measure:

    an action intended to keep something safe

    Related Words

    protector:

    a person or thing that protects

    protection:

    the act of keeping something safe

    protective:

    intended to protect someone or something

    Slang Meanings of protect

    Meaning: to cover or watch over someone closely

    Example Sentence: I got your back, I’m gonna protect you out there.

    Meaning: to act as a bodyguard or provide security

    Example Sentence: He's been protecting me like a real guardian.