'protect' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'protectus,' where 'pro-' meant 'in front of' and 'tectus' meant 'covered.'

'protectus' transformed into the Old French word 'proteger,' and eventually became the modern English word 'protect' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to cover in front of,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to keep safe from harm.'