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

By uncovering the molecular pathways that determine whether stem cells undergo protective exhaustion or dangerous expansion, this study connects the biology of tissue aging with cancer formation.

Read more on Science Daily

That setup, he said, can perform most of the functions needed for electronics assembly, such as soldering, inserting screws or peeling off protective films.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

They believe uric acid might play a similar protective role in humans.

Read more on Science Daily

Iamaleava moved without a limp or any protective equipment beyond his normal leg sleeve.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"I'm protective of the people and the reality of my life", he told GQ magazine in April.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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