n. 1 a the act or an instance of protecting. b the state of being protected; defence (affords protection against the weather). c a thing, person, or animal that provides protection (bought a dog as protection). 2 (also protectionism) Econ. the theory or practice of protecting home industries. 3 colloq. a immunity from molestation obtained by payment to gangsters etc. under threat of violence. b (in full protection money) the money so paid, esp. on a regular basis. 4 = safe conduct. 5 archaic the keeping of a woman as a mistress. protectionist n.
[ ME f. OF protection or LL protectio (as PROTECT) ]