Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Protect \Pro*tect"\, 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.

         The gods of Greece protect you!          --Shak.

   Syn: To guard; shield; preserve. See {Defend}.

Source : WordNet®

protect
     v 1: shield from danger, injury, destruction, or damage;
          "Weatherbeater protects your roof from the rain"
     2: use tariffs to favor domestic industry