shield 1 of 2

Definition of shieldnext

shield

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word shield different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of shield are defend, guard, protect, and safeguard. While all these words mean "to keep secure from danger or against attack," shield suggests protective intervention in imminent danger or actual attack.

shielded her eyes from the sun with her hand

When might defend be a better fit than shield?

Although the words defend and shield have much in common, defend denotes warding off actual or threatened attack.

defend the country

When is it sensible to use guard instead of shield?

The words guard and shield can be used in similar contexts, but guard implies protecting with vigilance and force against expected danger.

White House entrances are well guarded

When would protect be a good substitute for shield?

The words protect and shield are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, protect implies the use of something (such as a covering) as a bar to the admission or impact of what may attack or injure.

a hard hat to protect your head

When could safeguard be used to replace shield?

While the synonyms safeguard and shield are close in meaning, safeguard implies taking precautionary protective measures against merely possible danger.

our civil liberties must be safeguarded

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of shield
Noun
At the scene, CMPD brought in three armored vehicles and a mobile tactical shield designed to transport officers into potentially hazardous situations. Zaire Breedlove, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2026 On the shuttle’s exterior, people can see the gray heat shields that can take 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit, while the white shields can safeguard a mere 700 degrees. Marla Jo Fisher, Daily News, 24 June 2026
Verb
Remember, tents do not shield you from lightning. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 23 June 2026 The willingness and ability to do that becomes even more important as data center development accelerates and utilities increasingly emphasize the need to shield customers from rising costs. David Blackmon, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for shield
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shield
Noun
  • King’s attorney, Bill Mason, began his presentation by referencing Bosworth’s mentioning a defendant can’t be judged for not testifying in their own defense.
    Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 June 2026
  • While Thomas has had offensive struggles, his defense has never been a question.
    Sean Campbell, Sacbee.com, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • In the final months of pregnancy, the testicles descend through a passage called the inguinal canal to land in the scrotum, the pouch that protects them for the rest of a man’s life.
    Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
  • This shampoo and conditioner are designed to strengthen and protect hair health while reducing frizz and split ends.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 25 June 2026
Verb
  • Madeline Mitchell's role covering women and the caregiving economy at USA TODAY is supported by a partnership with Pivotal and Journalism Funding Partners.
    Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • Video showed people running and several areas inside the airport covered in rubble and dust, with damaged ceilings.
    Helen Regan, CNN Money, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • The state expansion also means protection for the rare riparian forest.
    Kayla Moeller, CBS News, 23 June 2026
  • Just remember, tents do not offer protection from lightning.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Mercury star and Bonner's girlfriend Alyssa Thomas rushed in to defend Bonner.
    Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026
  • Trump had campaigned on border and immigration control but also had defended the need for foreign workers.
    Ignacio Calderon, USA Today, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The seizures added up to about 420 grams of cocaine, $2,291 in cash, a rifle, four pistols, various magazines and ammunition, and digital scales and packaging materials believed to be used in narcotics distribution, the sheriff's office said.
    Paula Wethington, CBS News, 23 June 2026
  • These attacks can strain traditional air defense systems, which usually depend on expensive interceptors and have limited ammunition.
    Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Confirm details twice to safeguard your progress.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2026
  • These awards recognize areas that demonstrate exceptional management, as well as strong regulations that safeguard wildlife.
    Brianna Randall, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • IsoHemp’s blocks, made out of hemp and lime binders, can be integrated into load-bearing structures, and are suitable for both interior and exterior walls.
    Amy Gunia, CNN Money, 24 June 2026
  • In the second inning, the Giants’ Matt Chapman hit a liner off the left-field wall to bring home Willy Adames and give San Francisco a 2-0 lead.
    ABC News, ABC News, 24 June 2026

Cite this Entry

“Shield.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shield. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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