protector

noun

pro·​tec·​tor prə-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce protector (audio)
Synonyms of protectornext
1
a
: one that protects : guardian
b
: a device used to prevent injury : guard
2
a
: one having the care of a kingdom during the king's minority : regent
b
: the executive head of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1653 to 1659

called also Lord Protector of the Commonwealth

protectorship
prə-ˈtek-tər-ˌship How to pronounce protector (audio)
noun

Synonyms of protector

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Examples of protector in a Sentence

She sees her older brother as her protector. a protector of free speech
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cunningham has seen her own popularity soar over the last two years as Clark’s on-court protector. — Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2026 The Horned Frogs also return one of the nation’s top rim protectors in junior center Clara Silva and sophomore wing Clara Bielefeld. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Oct. 2026 Speaking on the sidelines of an event in London earlier this month, Alex Godfrey, Astroscale's head of defense, said the company could have a protector spacecraft ready for launch in under three years. — Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 27 Oct. 2026 Gang leaders in urban communities, like warlords in conflict zones, often position themselves as providers, protectors, mentors and father figures. — Charles Wratto, The Conversation, 27 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for protector

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of protector was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing protector

Rhymes for protector

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Browse Nearby Words

protect one's ass
protector
protectoral
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Cite this Entry

“Protector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/protector. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

protector

noun
pro·​tec·​tor prə-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce protector (audio)
1
: a person or thing that protects or is intended to protect
2
: a person who takes charge of a kingdom while the king or queen is too young to rule : regent
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