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.

"We do feel well protected but it's hard to protect against an unknown entity", she admitted.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

The nonprofit, which opposes government use of facial recognition data, has advocated for strengthening laws to protect consumers when the technology is used by private businesses.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

In group chats and comments, many Chinese social-media users criticized the MSS’s message, complained about long working hours and urged the government to do more to protect labor rights.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

The ECB has since created the Transmission Protection Instrument External link —a tool designed to protect against unwarranted spikes in borrowing costs across euro-area countries.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

Orion barked, then crouched down, ready to protect Glory.

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova

Vocabulary lists containing protect

Motherlode: A Mother's Day Lexicon

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Check It Out, Mate: Chess Vocabulary

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Michelle Obama's Speech at the 2016 DNC

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!