Protecting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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protecting
[prəˈtɛktɪŋ ]
Definition
keep safe
To protect means to keep someone or something safe from harm, damage, or danger. It involves taking measures to prevent any harm or danger from reaching the person or object being protected. This can include physical protection, such as wearing a helmet to protect your head, or providing security measures to protect a building from intruders.
Synonyms
defend, guard, secure, shield.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| protecting |
General term for keeping someone or something safe from harm.
|
| guard |
Often used when someone is assigned to keep watch over a person or place to ensure safety.
|
| defend |
Used in situations where active resistance against an attack or criticism is involved.
|
| shield |
Typically used when someone or something is used as a physical or metaphorical barrier to prevent harm.
|
| secure |
Can be used when ensuring that something is safe and not likely to be at risk.
|
Examples of usage
- He wore a bulletproof vest to protect himself from gunshots.
- The police officer protected the witness from potential threats.
- Parents protect their children by teaching them safety rules.
- Protecting the environment is crucial for future generations.
- She used an umbrella to protect herself from the rain.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Aspects
- In law, protecting can refer to the act of safeguarding rights, often seen in child protection laws.
- Environmental laws aim at protecting nature by setting limits on pollution and resource extraction.
Cultural Perspectives
- Many cultures have traditions focused on protecting the community, such as guardian spirits or ancestral reverence.
- The concept of protecting extends to cultural heritage, with UNESCO designating sites around the world for their historical significance.
Psychological Importance
- The act of protecting can foster a sense of security, which contributes positively to mental health.
- Feelings of being protected often correlate with increased trust and social bonding within relationships.
Literature
- In literature, heroes often embody the theme of protecting those who cannot protect themselves, a common moral in many fables.
- Several famous novels depict characters who take on the role of protector, highlighting personal growth and sacrifice.
Origin of 'protecting'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'protecting' comes from the Latin word 'protectus,' which means 'to cover or shield.'
- The root 'tegere' in Latin means 'to cover,' showing how the concept has shaped the meaning over time.
The word 'protecting' comes from the Latin word 'protectus', which is the past participle of 'protegere', meaning 'to cover in front, defend, protect'. The concept of protection has been essential throughout history, from ancient warriors protecting their tribes to modern-day security measures safeguarding individuals and property.
See also: overprotective, protect, protectant, protected, protection, protections, protective, protectively, protectiveness, protector, protectors, unprotected.