protective

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pro·tec·tive / prəˈtektiv/ • adj. capable of or intended to protect someone or something: protective gloves are worn to minimize injury. ∎  having or showing a strong wish to keep someone or something safe from harm: I felt protective toward her Marco wrapped a protective arm around her shoulder. ∎  Econ. of or relating to the protection of domestic industries from foreign competition: protective tariffs.DERIVATIVES: pro·tec·tive·ly adv.pro·tec·tive·ness n.