protect

[pruh-tekt] / prəˈtɛkt /

VERB

take care of; guard from harm

Synonyms

STRONGEST

assure care for conserve cover cushion defend insulate keep look after preserve safeguard save secure shelter shield support

STRONG

bulwark champion chaperon fend foster harbor hedge screen shade stonewall watch

WEAK

cover all bases cover up give refuge give sanctuary go to bat for keep safe ride shotgun for sentinel shotgun stand guard take under wing watch over

Antonyms

STRONGEST

abandon destroy endanger give up harm hurt ignore injure lay bare let go neglect release squander uncover waste

STRONG

open

WEAK

attack

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“I look forward to hearing about the work being done in California to protect democracy as we fight on the ground and in Congress.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Mr. Woods has the wherewithal to protect the public and himself from harm by calling a cab or an Uber or hiring a full-time driver.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Plaid Cymru has said long-term investment in renewable energy would help protect people from price hikes.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

“No one can protect themselves from their own incompetence,” a former Bondi staff member told me.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

“Be a good house to my family, protect them from ill fortune, keep them safe.”

From "Across So Many Seas" by Ruth Behar

protect

Example Sentences

Related Words