protector

noun

pro·​tec·​tor prə-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce protector (audio)
1
a
: one that protects : guardian
b
: a device used to prevent injury : guard
2
a
: one having the care of a kingdom during the king's minority : regent
b
: the executive head of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1653 to 1659

called also Lord Protector of the Commonwealth

protectorship noun

Examples of protector in a Sentence

She sees her older brother as her protector. a protector of free speech
Recent Examples on the Web New York Jets: TE Brock Bowers, Georgia — Sure, the Jets could use a protector for Aaron Rodgers. Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times, 4 Mar. 2024 In her roles, and in her own life, Winslet has moved, sure-footed, from the role of ingénue to the role of the fierce protector. Susan Dominus, New York Times, 3 Mar. 2024 His premium athleticism shows in the run game, but there’s still a lot of work to do with developing his technique as a pass protector. 40. Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Feb. 2024 Latham's a proficient pass protector and solid in the run game. Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAY, 21 Feb. 2024 Check the container to make certain the shoots and rhizomes are not being nibbled, and install a floating plant protector if needed. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 21 Feb. 2024 This type of masculinity adheres to conventional male roles, taking on the duties of being the provider and protector in a relationship. Mark Travers, Forbes, 16 Feb. 2024 Munteanu takes on the role of Krieg, the musclebound protector for Tiny Tina, a feral pre-teen demolitionist played by Greenblatt. Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2024 In his work, Creech frequently explores his personal faith, his trust in God and his admiration for the people who are the protectors of the world — including prison workers. Kevin Fixler, Idaho Statesman, 15 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'protector.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of protector was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near protector

Cite this Entry

“Protector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/protector. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

protector

noun
pro·​tec·​tor prə-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce protector (audio)
1
: a person or thing that protects or is intended to protect
2
: a person who takes charge of a kingdom while the king or queen is too young to rule : regent

More from Merriam-Webster on protector

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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