protect
verb (used with object)
to defend or guard from attack, invasion, loss, annoyance, insult, etc.; cover or shield from injury or danger.
have protected
-
present perfectof protect.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Rogers would have protected those plaintiffs as well.
From Slate ● Sep. 1, 2026
The district has revamped policies several times since, but even in 2008, officials stumbled in the Rooney case by not following guidelines that should have protected students.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 5, 2026
Jurors heard she was permitted to hold her son's hand when his life support was withdrawn, and was heard to say: "I should have protected you."
From BBC ● Mar. 24, 2026
You have protected your assets and your stepdaughter’s inheritance by ensuring that you and your second husband signed a prenuptial agreement, although they’re not automatically binding under the law in England and Wales.
From MarketWatch ● Feb. 17, 2026
Beware of the men I have protected you from knowing, she had said.
From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy
