# protector

/pɹəˈtɛktɝ/ (US) · /pɹətˈɛktɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/protector
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. a person who guards

noun · CEFR B2

someone who keeps you safe from danger or harm.

For teachers: a person who protects or guards another person, an object, or a place, either by official assignment or personal initiative.

- The dog was a loyal protector of the family home.
- Throughout the trial, the witness viewed the lead detective as her sole protector against the threats of the criminal organization.

### 2. a protective device

noun · CEFR B2

a piece of equipment that prevents something from being damaged.

For teachers: a mechanical device or physical covering designed to prevent injury, wear, or damage.

- You should use a screen protector to keep your phone from scratching.
- The electrician installed a surge protector to ensure the sensitive laboratory equipment would not be damaged by power fluctuations.

### 3. historical regent

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · British English

a person who ruled a country while the king was too young or away.

For teachers: a historical title for a person appointed to govern a kingdom during the monarch's minority or absence, notably the Lord Protector.

- Oliver Cromwell was given the title of Lord Protector of the Commonwealth.
- The Duke served as the young king's protector, managing the affairs of the state until the boy reached his sixteenth birthday.

Teaching tip: This sense is almost exclusively found in history books, particularly regarding English history.

## Examples

- He has always been a loyal protector of his younger sister.
- The new law acts as a protector of consumer rights by preventing companies from hiding extra fees.
- In many ancient mythologies, the mountain was seen as a divine protector that shielded the valley from the harsh northern winds and invading armies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.