Protect (?), 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.
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The gods of Greece protect you! Shak.
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Syn. -- To guard; shield; preserve. See Defend.
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