protective /prəˈtɛktɪv/ adjective Learner's definition of PROTECTIVE
1
always used before a noun : used to protect someone or something : giving or meant to give protection保护的;防护的 -
He put a protective cover over the car.他给车套了个防护罩。
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protective clothing/gear防护服/用具
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The police are keeping her in protective custody. [=in jail and away from others so that she will not be harmed]警方对她施行保护性拘留。
2
[more protective; most protective] : having or showing a strong desire to protect someone or something from harm有保护意愿的 —
often + of
— protectiveness
noun [noncount]