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Definition of protective

protective

/prəˈtɛktɪv/
pro · tec · tive
Adverb:protectively
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protective Lexical Profile

protective Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Intended or adapted to keep someone or something safe from harm, damage, or injury.

Example

"Laboratory technicians must wear protective goggles when handling hazardous chemicals."

2

Showing a strong desire to keep someone safe from harm, criticism, or unwanted attention.

Example

"The mother bear became fiercely protective when hikers approached her cubs."

3

Relating to economic policies or tariffs designed to shield domestic industries from foreign competition.

Example

"The government enacted protective tariffs to support local steel manufacturers."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for protective

• Rhymes for protective

• Nearby Words

protectingly
protection
protectionist
protective
protectively
protectiveness
protector

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-17th century from the verb 'protect' and the suffix '-ive', ultimately deriving from the Latin 'protectus', the past participle of 'protegere', meaning 'to cover in front'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Protective. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/protective
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