to defend or guard from attack, invasion, loss, annoyance, insult, etc.; cover or shield from injury or danger.

Economics . to guard (the industry or an industry of a nation) from foreign competition by imposing import duties.

to provide funds for the payment of (a draft, note, etc.).

to provide, or be capable of providing, protection

a floor wax that protects as well as shines.

verb

attack , harm , hurt , injure

verb

assure , bulwark , care for , champion , chaperon , conserve , cover , cover all bases , cover up , cushion , defend , fend , foster , give refuge , give sanctuary , go to bat for * , harbor , hedge , insulate , keep , keep safe , look after , preserve , ride shotgun for , safeguard , save , screen , secure , sentinel , shade , shelter , shield , shotgun , stand guard , stonewall * , support , take under wing , watch , watch over , guard , ward , advocate , backer , befriend , cherish , fortify , hide , insure , police , proponent , supporter