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

• protectiveness noun
• protectively adverb
• 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

As a result, public health strategies increasingly emphasize community participation, routine elimination of standing water, and the use of mosquito repellents, screens, and protective clothing to reduce the risk of infection.

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The researchers added: “There is a strong positive association of social isolation and loneliness with depression from youth to older adulthood. Further, higher social connectedness is protective towards depressive symptoms and disorders.”

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Now she reads all his scripts and visits often, still fiercely protective of him.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“There’s been times you can sense the uncool part of it,” says Kelsey of all the protective gear.

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“We’ve been through geopolitical issues, monopolistic practices, government protective policies, but we know one thing: that when it comes to trade, it’s very resilient.”

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Related Words

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