Protect
/prəˈtɛkt/
Definitions
To defend or guard from attack, harm, or danger; to keep safe.
/prəˈtɛkt/
To keep someone or something safe from harm or injury.
The umbrella protects you from the rain.
💡 Simply: Think of protecting as being like a superhero's job! When someone or something is in danger, you step in to keep them safe. For example, you might protect your little sister from bullies, or your parents might protect their car from the rain by putting it in a garage.
👶 For kids: To keep something or someone safe from getting hurt or in trouble.
More Examples
The security guard protected the building from intruders.
She protected her secret by keeping it to herself.
The sunscreen protects your skin from the sun.
How It's Used
"The helmet protected his head from injury."
"The law is designed to protect the rights of the individual."
"We must protect endangered species."
Idioms & expressions
Protection money
Money paid to criminals to prevent them from causing harm or damage.
"The shopkeeper had to pay protection money to the local gang."
Protected species
Animals or plants that are legally protected from being hunted or harmed.
"The park is home to many protected species, including the bald eagle."
From Latin *prōtegō* (“to cover in front, protect”), from *prō-* (“before, in front”) + *tegō* (“to cover”).
The word 'protect' has been used since the 15th century and reflects the historical importance of defense and safeguarding.
Memory tip
Imagine a shield (protect) guarding you from arrows. The shield is protecting you!
Word Origin
"to cover in front, protect"