n. & v.
--n.
1. a statement of dissent or disapproval; a remonstrance (made a protest).
2 (often attrib.) a usu. public demonstration of objection to government etc. policy (marched in protest; protest demonstration).
3 a solemn declaration.
4 Law a written declaration, usu. by a notary public, that a bill has been presented and payment or acceptance refused.
--v.
1. intr. (usu. foll. by against, at, about, etc.) make a protest against an action, proposal, etc.
2 tr. (often foll. by that + clause; also absol.) affirm (one's innocence etc.) solemnly, esp. in reply to an accusation etc.
3 tr. Law write or obtain a protest in regard to (a bill).
4 tr. US object to (a decision etc.).
Phrases and idioms:
under protest unwillingly.
Derivatives:
protester n. protestingly adv. protestor n.
Etymology: ME f. OF protest (n.), protester (v.), f. L protestari (as PRO-(1), testari assert f. testis witness)