Protective

Definition

Protective refers to something intended to protect someone or something from harm or damage.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈtɛktɪv/
• Respelling: pruh-TEK-tiv (with "pruh" as in "product," "TEK" as in "tech," and "tiv" as in "active")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prəˈtɛktɪv/
• Respelling: pruh-TEK-tiv (similar to American English, with "pruh" as in "product," "TEK" as in "tech," and "tiv" as in "active")

In both dialects, "protective" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "TEK." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "TEK" part.

Etymology

The word "protective" stems from the Latin word "protectus", which is the past participle of "protegere", meaning "to cover" or "to shield". The suffix "-ive" is used to form adjectives from certain verbs, indicating a tendency, disposition, function, or nature that is related to the verb.

Derivatives

• Protect
• Protection
• Protector
• Protectively
• Protectorate

Synonyms

• Defensive
• Guarding
• Shielding

Antonyms

• Exposing
• Vulnerable
• Defenseless

Usage

"Protective" can be used in a variety of contexts, from describing gear that keeps one safe, to behaviors and measures that are meant to shield from harm.

Related Terms

• Protective gear
• Protective custody
• Protective barrier
• Protective layer

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Intended or designed to protect against harm or injury.
• Example: She wore protective gloves while handling chemicals.

• Showing a desire to shield someone from harm or distress; caring.
• Example: He had a protective instinct towards his younger sister.

• Aimed at or providing defense or resistance against something harmful.
• Example: The product comes in protective packaging to avoid any damage during shipping.