1. plural of protectorship; the office, position, or term of a protector; the state of being under protection or guardianship
Usage: Usually used in historical or formal contexts; Can refer to political or legal guardianship arrangements
2. the period during which a protector holds office or authority
Usage: Historical usage, particularly in reference to the English Protectorate under Oliver Cromwell

Examples

• The protectorships established during the colonial period provided legal oversight of indigenous populations.
• Several protectorships were created to manage the affairs of minor heirs until they reached adulthood.
• The historical protectorships of the 17th century fundamentally altered the political landscape of England.
• Under these protectorships, guardians held significant responsibility for the welfare of their wards.
• The duration of protectorships varied depending on the circumstances and legal requirements of each case.
• Many protectorships were dissolved once the protected parties became independent.