pro·tec·tion n
1: the act of protecting: the state of being protected
entitled to constitutional protection
2 a: one that protects
b: supervision or support of one having less power
protection of endangered species
3: the freeing of the producers of goods of a country from foreign competition in their home market by restrictions (as high duties) on foreign competitive goods
4 a: immunity from prosecution purchased by criminals through bribery
b: money extorted by racketeers posing as a protective association
5: coverage for loss provided by insurance
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.