IPA: /prəˈtɛkt/
KK: /prəˈtɛkt/
To keep someone or something safe from harm or danger.
The mother bird protects her chicks from predators.
Past: protected
Past Participle: protected
Protect → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning in favor of) and "tegere" (meaning to cover). The word "protect" means to cover or shield someone or something in favor of their safety.
Think of covering something 'in favor of' ('pro-') to keep it safe — that's what protect means.