Pro*tec"tion (?), n. [L. protectio: cf. F. protection.]
1.
The act of protecting, or the state of being protected; preservation from loss, injury, or annoyance; defense; shelter; as, the weak need protection.
To your protection I commend me, gods.
Shak.
2.
That which protects or preserves from injury; a defense; a shield; a refuge.
Let them rise up . . . and be your protection.
Deut. xxxii. 38.
3.
A writing that protects or secures from molestation or arrest; a pass; a safe-conduct; a passport.
He . . . gave them protections under his hand.
Macaulay.
4. Polit. Econ.
A theory, or a policy, of protecting the producers in a country from foreign competition in the home market by the imposition of such discriminating duties on goods of foreign production as will restrict or prevent their importation; -- opposed to free trade.
Writ of protection. Law (a) A writ by which the king formerly exempted a person from arrest; -- now disused. [Eng.] Blackstone. (b) A judicial writ issued to a person required to attend court, as party, juror, etc., intended to secure him from arrest in coming, staying, and returning.
Syn. -- Preservation; defense; guard; shelter; refuge; security; safety.
© Webster 1913.