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.

Some employers have taken measures to protect workers and keep ICE off their properties.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

Engagement refers to clients actively moving money to boost returns, or to protect what they’ve made.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 16, 2026

The company had previously expected an increase, and attributed the change to its actions to protect market share and prioritize growth amid significantly lower cocoa prices.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Celebrating its 146th season, they have spent the money on refurnishing the clubhouse, updating the car park and on netting to protect nearby houses.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

He now understood that he had not done enough to protect her.

From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman

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Michelle Obama's Speech at the 2016 DNC

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