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 of protector

• guardian
• defender
• custodian
• protection
• bodyguard

Examples of protector in a Sentence

She sees her older brother as her protector.

a protector of free speech

Recent Examples on the Web

An extra-wide elastic band keeps the protector securely in place. —V Brand Stories, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026

Amin Abdullah, Mansour Kaziha and Nadir Awad are remembered not only as victims but as heroes and protectors who moved toward danger so others could live. —Zainab Chaudry, Baltimore Sun, 22 May 2026

Biadasz is a pro who will provide an upgrade in all phases, including, most importantly, as a pass protector. —Daniel Popper, New York Times, 21 May 2026

This add-on, valued at $349, includes two pillows, a sheet set, and a mattress protector—the perfect deal for a comprehensive bedscape makeover. —Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 21 May 2026

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