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.

Two Virginia activists who are plaintiffs in the suit claim that they “want to uphold the rule of law and protect our nation’s most cherished monuments from corrupt exploitation.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

Gwynedd has the highest concentration of second homes in Wales, and the council said stronger controls were needed to protect Welsh‑speaking communities and improve access to housing.

From BBC • 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 company is offering a free set of basic services that protect user privacy.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

“You can’t protect yourself from something you can’t see, Lexie.”

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam

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!