Pro*tect"or (?), n. [L.: cf. F. protecteur.]
1.
One who, or that which, defends or shields from injury, evil, oppression, etc.; a defender; a guardian; a patron.
For the world's protector shall be known.
Waller.
2. Eng. Hist.
One having the care of the kingdom during the king's minority; a regent.
Is it concluded he shall be protector !
Shak.
3. R. C. Ch.
A cardinal, from one of the more considerable Roman Catholic nations, who looks after the interests of his people at Rome; also, a cardinal who has the same relation to a college, religious order, etc.
Lord Protector Eng. Hist., the title of Oliver Cromwell as supreme governor of the British Commonwealth (1653-1658).
© Webster 1913.