1. to keep someone or something safe from harm, damage, or danger
2. to support a policy or law that helps or defends something

Examples

• Parents protect their children from danger.
• Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays.
• The bodyguard was hired to protect the celebrity.
• Laws protect workers from unfair treatment.
• The vaccine helps protect against the disease.
• We need to protect the environment for future generations.
• The helmet protected his head during the accident.