Pro*tect" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Protected; p. pr. & vb. n. Protecting.] [L. protectus, p. p. of protegere, literally, to cover in front; pro before + tegere to cover. See Tegument.]
To cover or shield from danger or injury; to defend; to guard; to preserve in safety; as, a father protects his children.
The gods of Greece protect you!
Shak.
Syn. -- To guard; shield; preserve. See Defend.
© Webster 1913.