Definition of protectnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word protect different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of protect are defend, guard, safeguard, and shield. While all these words mean "to keep secure from danger or against attack," protect implies the use of something (such as a covering) as a bar to the admission or impact of what may attack or injure.

a hard hat to protect your head

When is defend a more appropriate choice than protect?

The words defend and protect can be used in similar contexts, but defend denotes warding off actual or threatened attack.

defend the country

When is it sensible to use guard instead of protect?

In some situations, the words guard and protect are roughly equivalent. However, guard implies protecting with vigilance and force against expected danger.

White House entrances are well guarded

When can safeguard be used instead of protect?

Although the words safeguard and protect have much in common, safeguard implies taking precautionary protective measures against merely possible danger.

our civil liberties must be safeguarded

When would shield be a good substitute for protect?

While in some cases nearly identical to protect, shield suggests protective intervention in imminent danger or actual attack.

shielded her eyes from the sun with her hand

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of protect The security laminate not only protects the entrances against an active shooter, but can help in natural disasters such as tornados as well, Caparelli-Ruff said. Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026 Superpowered Marshal BraveStarr protects the planet of New Texas from various frontier bad guys, assisted by the eyes of the hawk, the ears of the wolf, the speed of the puma, and the strength of the bear. Richard Edwards, Space.com, 5 July 2026 This helps nourish and protect hair from external aggressors like UV damage and pollution, which can cause weakness and buildup. Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 5 July 2026 Many people layer jute rugs with another rug to protect them from heavy traffic. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for protect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protect
Verb
  • While San Francisco’s bullpen is struggling, Rogers is in the midst of another excellent season after signing a three-year, $37 million deal to join the defending American League champions.
    Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 7 July 2026
  • This year, Argentina is defending its World Cup title, with Messi widely regarded as one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.
    Maddie Connors, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
Verb
  • Some of those properties may now be serving as locations where hidden assets are being safeguarded.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026
  • The Components of Confidential Computing Confidential Computing (CC) safeguards data during processing, not just storage or transmission.
    Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • In a June 10 letter, Abbott ordered state regulators to shield Texans from the electricity costs related to data centers.
    Mary Ella Hastings Updated July 1, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 July 2026
  • Court documents said Gipson allegedly stabbed one victim in the leg, stabbed another in the torso who was trying to shield the other victim, and nicked the third victim in the leg.
    Carlos E. Castañeda, CBS News, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • Diving for loose balls, boxing out, guarding whoever Steve Kerr told him to, and occasionally making a basket.
    Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 6 July 2026
  • Chiefs guard Trey Smith is not the only member of his family currently in the NFL, as his sister Ashley has a role in the league office.
    Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Protect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/protect. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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