protect

Protect is a verb meaning to keep something or someone safe from harm, damage, or loss. It can also be used more broadly to safeguard a value, right, or resource. The related noun is protection, and protective is the common adjective form. The word entered English via Old French protéger, from Latin protegere, formed from pro- “forward” and tegere “to cover”.

In everyday use, protection appears as physical safety measures and equipment, such as helmets, seat belts, or guards that shield the body; rules and procedures that reduce risk; or actions that prevent injury or damage. Protective gear, safety protocols, and disaster preparedness plans are common contexts for the term.

In law and policy, protect denotes safeguarding rights, property, or information. Data protection and privacy laws regulate how personal data is collected and used. Environmental protection aims to preserve ecosystems and natural resources, while wildlife and cultural heritage protection seek to prevent loss or degradation of valuable assets.

In technology and health, protection covers cybersecurity measures such as encryption and access controls, as well as memory protection in computing. Vaccination and public health interventions protect individuals and communities from disease. Overall, protection emphasizes forming barriers, defenses, or procedures that limit exposure to hazards.