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View synonyms for

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: ,
    Antonyms:
  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

/ əˈɛ /

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)

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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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
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Word History and Origins

Origin of protect1

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin ōŧٳܲ “covered in front,” past participle of ōٱ𲵱 “to cover in front,” equivalent to ō- pro- 1 + tegere “to cover” (akin to toga, thatch )
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Word History and Origins

Origin of protect1

C16: from Latin ōٱ𲵱 to cover before, from pro- 1 + tegere to cover
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Synonym Study

See defend.
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

"It is important that the fate of pesticides and other chemicals in the environment is understood, in order to protect drinking water sources."

From

"I have worked closely with him over the past year and thank him for his valuable contribution enhancing our national security and protecting the British public."

From

Many of those in Tehran and elsewhere, recall the confusion of Friday: what exactly was happening; how widespread was it; and how could they protect themselves and their families?

From

"To come under sustained attack when you are there to serve and protect all is disheartening to say the least," she added.

From

Selecting all-rounders Green and Webster weakens Australia's batting, and could be a subtle indication they are trying to have enough overs at their disposal to protect their old pacers.

From

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