protecting

word · lemma: protect

/pɹəˈtɛktɪŋ/
pruh-TEK-ting
/pɹətˈɛktɪŋ/
pruh-TEK-ting

Definition

Keeping someone or something safe from harm, damage, danger, or loss. It is the present participle of 'protect' and is often used in continuous tenses or as an adjective-like form.

Usage & Nuances

Common patterns include 'protecting someone from something' and 'protecting against'. 'Protect' is more active than 'defend' in many everyday contexts: you protect skin from the sun, data from hackers, or children from danger. 'Protecting' can describe an ongoing action or a role, as in 'protecting the environment'.

Example Sentences

Wearing a hat is protecting your face from the sun.

basic

The fence is protecting the garden from animals.

basic

They are protecting the child from danger.

basic

We’re protecting our data by using stronger passwords now.

natural

She says she’s protecting you, but it feels a bit controlling.

natural

Local groups are protecting the river from pollution.

natural