Protection

Pro·tec′tion (·tĕk′shŭn), n. [L. protectio: cf. F. protection.] 1. The act of protecting, or the state of being protected; preservation from loss, injury, or annoyance; defense; shelter; as, the weak need protection.

To your protection I commend me, gods. Shak.

2. That which protects or preserves from injury; a defense; a shield; a refuge.

Let them rise up . . . and be your protection. Deut. xxxii. 38.

3. A writing that protects or secures from molestation or arrest; a pass; a safe-conduct; a passport.

He . . . gave them protections under his hand. Macaulay.

4. (Polit. Econ.) A theory, or a policy, of protecting the producers in a country from foreign competition in the home market by the imposition of such discriminating duties on goods of foreign production as will restrict or prevent their importation; — opposed to free trade.

Writ of protection. (Law) (a) A writ by which the king formerly exempted a person from arrest; — now disused. [Eng.] Blackstone. (b) A judicial writ issued to a person required to attend court, as party, juror, etc., intended to secure him from arrest in coming, staying, and returning.

Syn. — Preservation; defense; guard; shelter; refuge; security; safety.