protected
kept safe from harm or damageThe castle was protected by a high wall and a moat.
The castle was kept safe from attackers by its defenses.
Kept safe from harm, damage, or danger
The children were protected from the sun by their hats.
The children's hats kept them safe from the sun's rays.
The software is protected by a password.
The software is secured with a password to prevent unauthorized access.
Can refer to physical, digital, or legal protection.
Legally safeguarded from interference or harm
The witness was protected by a court order.
The court issued an order to prevent harm to the witness.
Often used in legal contexts to describe rights or protections under law.
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Pro Tip
Legal vs. Physical Use
In legal contexts, 'protected' often refers to rights or laws, while in everyday use, it refers to physical safety.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
Always consider whether 'protected' is used in a physical, digital, or legal sense.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'protecten,' from Latin 'protegere,' meaning 'to cover over, protect.'
Usage Notes
Can be used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as protecting data or rights.