verb
protect
pruh-TEKT/prəˈtekt/
Keep safe from harm or unwanted access.
The adult fits a helmet to protect the child before a bicycle ride.
Etymology
Covering in front gives the image of a shield between something and danger. The Latin verb already joined this physical covering with the broader idea of defending from harm.
In context
mother hyenas give birth in Hidden dens to keep their cubs safe from predators they nurse their cubs with milk and protect them fiercely from danger
More examples
- These gloves protect your hands from sharp edges.
- The password protected the account from casual access.
- We are protecting the young trees from frost.
Forms
protect · protects · protected · protecting
protection noun — Action or means keeping something safe
protective adjective — Intended to prevent harm