Definitions

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.

They say they "would expect to be informed" on these matters so they could "assess risk" and ensure measures were in place to protect their staff, contractors and the public.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

“The delay was necessary to protect the integrity of the investigation and allow investigators to complete essential investigative steps,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

It is a tool you have purchased to protect the most valuable asset you own.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

In a statement published Wednesday, Russia's digital ministry said Roblox had successfully implemented measures to "protect children, including by launching a mechanism to restrict access to games by age group".

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

The school’s earthquake drills had taught him to protect his head and he did it the only way he could.

From "Earthquake Terror" by Peg Kehret

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!