protector

noun

pro·​tec·​tor prə-ˈtek-tər 

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

prə-ˈtek-tər-ˌship 

noun

Synonyms

• custodian
• defender
• guard
• guardian
• guardian angel
• protection

Examples of protector in a Sentence

She sees her older brother as her protector.

a protector of free speech

Recent Examples on the Web

Make use of heads up or posture protector apps that remind you not to bend your neck. —Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2025

The 34-year-old tackle started 14 games last season and graded out as a slightly above-average pass protector and average overall starter, per Pro Football Focus. —Doug Kyed, Boston Herald, 10 Mar. 2025

After choosing your preferred mattress type (the One or Dream), select a foundation and waterproof mattress protector to complete your purchase. —Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 9 Mar. 2025

Sandra often played the role of protector, stepping in to shield him from their mother’s wrath or mislead the police officers who came around looking for him. —Libor Jany, Los Angeles Times, 22 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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

Phrases Containing protector

• surge protector

Rhymes for protector

• bisector
• collector
• connector
• corrector
• defector
• deflector
• detector
• director
• dissector
• effector
• ejector
• elector

Kids Definition

protector

noun

pro·​tec·​tor prə-ˈtek-tər 

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