protect

pro-tect · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    Keep safe from harm or injury.

  2. 2.

    Aim to preserve a group or area from harm.

  3. 3.

    Shield an industry from competition through tariffs.

  4. 4.

    (Computing) Restrict access to data.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    protect against — Guard or defend from.
  • •
    self-protection — Protecting oneself.
  • •
    protected species — Animals or plants protected by law.
  • •
    protect and serve — A police motto.

Related words

Antonyms: attack, endanger, expose, harm
See also: defend, guard, safety, shield
Synonyms: defend, guard, safeguard, shield

Etymology

From Latin protegere ("to cover in front, protect"), from pro ("in front") + tegere ("to cover").