From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Protect \Pro*tect"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Protected; p. pr. &
vb. n. Protecting.] [L. protectus, p. p. of protegere,
literally, to cover in front; pro before + tegere to cover.
See Tegument.]
To cover or shield from danger or injury; to defend; to
guard; to preserve in safety; as, a father protects his
children.
[1913 Webster]
The gods of Greece protect you! --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
Syn: To guard; shield; preserve. See Defend.
[1913 Webster]