rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryRoot: -io
Latin

-io

an action, process, or result

Forms

  • -io
  • -ion- — The longer form used before Latin endings.
  • -ion — The form carried into many English nouns.

Origin

An old Latin noun ending, inherited from earlier Indo-European word formation.

Note

The ending can name both an activity and what that activity produces.

289 / 371
noun

protection

pruh-TEK-shun/prəˈtekʃn/

Action taken to keep harm from occurring.

The thick oven mitt provides protection from the hot baking tray.

Thick protective oven mitt completely covers a hand lifting a hot baking tray; small rising steam, hand separated from metal by padded mitt, no brand or writing.
Etymology
proLatinbefore, forward; on behalf of
+tectLatincover
+ionLatinan action, process, or result

The underlying image is covering something in front, as a shield does. From this physical covering comes the broader act or condition of being kept safe from harm.

In context

Cascade QMS1:53
Don't forget hearing protection in high noise areas. ANSI rated earplugs or ear muffs can prevent permanent hearing loss.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Toolbox Talk

More examples

  • Sunscreen offers protection against sunburn.
  • The new law strengthens protections for renters.
  • Local gangs demand protection money from shop owners.

Forms

protection · protections

protect verb — To keep someone or something from harm.

protective adjective — Intended to keep someone or something safe.

Similar words

safeguard
A specific precaution, rather than protection as a whole.
defense
Emphasizes resisting an attack rather than preventing harm generally.