— protectively , adv. — protectiveness , n.
/preuh tek"tiv/ , adj.
1. having the quality or function of protecting: a protective covering.
2. tending to protect.
3. Econ. of, pertaining to, or designed to favor protectionism: protective tariffs.
4. defensive (def. 4).
[ 1655-65; PROTECT + -IVE ]