protective

[pruh-tek-tiv]

adjective

1. having the quality or function of protecting: protecting.

   a protective covering.

2. tending to protect.

3. Economics.,  of, relating to, or designed to favor protectionism.

   protective tariffs.

4. defensive.

protective

/ prəˈtɛktɪv /

adjective

1. giving or capable of giving protection

2. economics of, relating to, or intended for protection of domestic industries

noun

1. something that protects

2. a condom

Other Word Forms

• protectively adverb
• protectiveness noun
• nonprotective adjective
• nonprotectively adverb
• semiprotective adjective
• semiprotectively adverb
• unprotective adjective
• unprotectively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of protective¹

First recorded in 1655–65; protect + -ive

Example Sentences

"Both drugs show strong cardioprotective effects. Our data also indicate that these benefits occur early, suggesting that their protective mechanisms go beyond weight loss alone," said Krüger.

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Hazardous materials are in several of the cargo containers involved in the blaze and all firefighters are wearing protective suits and oxygen masks, according to LAFD.

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A good way to protect them is fairly basic: Put up protective cages.

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As a protective response, the body forms scar tissue in the damaged area.

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They included failing to provide decontamination facilities and protective gear for workers, not following label instructions for pesticide use and failing to post emergency medical information in fields.

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Related Words

• careful 
• defensive 
• jealous 
• possessive 
• vigilant 
• warm 
• watchful