/prə'tektɪv; prə`tɛktɪv/
adj
1 [esp attrib 尤作定语] that protects or is intended to protect 保护的; 防护的; 意在保护或防护的
*a protective layer of varnish 一层保护清漆
* Workers who handle asbestos need to wear protective clothing. 接触石棉的工人需穿防护衣.
* wearing protective headgear on a motor cycle 骑摩托车时戴保护头盔
* pro,tective `colouring, ie on the bodies of birds, animals and insects, making it difficult for predators to see them （鸟、兽及昆虫身上之）保护色
* protective duties/tariffs on imported goods 加于进口货物的保护性关税.
2 ~ (towards sb) having or showing a wish to protect 有保护之意愿的; 显示保护之意愿的
*A mother naturally feels protective towards her children. 母亲对自己的孩子自然会悉心保护.
* He put his arm round her in a protective gesture. 他用一只手臂围住她做出保护的姿势.

n (US) contraceptive sheath; condom 避孕套; 阴茎套.

adj
[only before noun]
used or intended for protection
　protective clothing
　Sunscreen provides a protective layer against the sun's harmful rays.
wanting to protect someone from harm or danger
protective towards
　I can't help feeling protective towards my kids.
protective of
　He's very protective of his younger brother.
intended to give an advantage to your own country's industry
　protective tariffs
>protectivelyadv
>protectivenessn[U]