Protect Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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protect

[prəˈtɛkt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

keep safe

To protect means to keep someone or something safe from harm, damage, or danger. It involves taking measures to prevent harm or injury from occurring.

Synonyms

defend, guard, shield.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
protect	Use this word when ensuring safety or preventing harm from coming to someone or something. Parents work hard to protect their children from danger. She wore sunscreen to protect her skin from the sun.
defend	This word is appropriate when talking about fighting back or resisting an attack, either physically or verbally. The soldier bravely defended his country. He defended himself against the false accusations.
guard	Employ this word when discussing the act of watching over someone or something to prevent harm or unauthorized access. The security team guarded the entrance all night. The dog dutifully guarded the house while its owners were away.
shield	This word suits situations where one provides a barrier or buffer to prevent harm, often used metaphorically. He raised his arm to shield his eyes from the bright light. Parents often try to shield their children from harsh realities.

Examples of usage

He protected his family from the harsh weather by building a shelter.
The police officer protected the citizens from the criminal activity in the area.
She wore sunscreen to protect her skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

person or thing that provides protection

A protect is a person or thing that provides protection. It can refer to a bodyguard, a security system, or any other means of keeping someone or something safe.

Synonyms

defender, guardian, protector.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
protect	Used when talking about keeping someone or something safe from harm or danger. Parents always try to protect their children from any harm. Wearing a helmet can protect your head during a bike ride.
guardian	Usually used to describe someone who has the legal responsibility of taking care of another person, often a child, or someone who watches over a place or thing. He became the legal guardian of his niece after her parents passed away. The night guardian checked the museum to ensure all exhibits were safe.
defender	Often used in situations involving someone who actively defends against attacks or criticism. Can be used in both literal and figurative (legal, sports) contexts. The defender blocked the ball from entering the goal. She was a staunch defender of human rights.
protector	Used to describe someone who shields or defends another; commonly implies a role or duty of protection in a more general sense. He saw himself as the protector of the small village. The amulet was said to be a powerful protector against evil spirits.

Examples of usage

The protect escorted the VIP safely to the event.
The firewall acts as a protect for the computer system.
The vaccine serves as a protect against the disease.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'protect'

The word 'protect' originated from the Latin word 'protectus', which is the past participle of 'protegere', meaning 'to cover in front'. The concept of protection has been essential throughout human history, with individuals and societies developing various methods to safeguard themselves and others from harm. The evolution of protection mechanisms has led to the modern understanding of 'protect' as a verb and a noun, emphasizing the importance of safety and security.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,594, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1591 necessarily
1592 shares
1593 supplies
1594 protect
1595 periods
1596 director
1597 institution
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