protected
UK: prəˈtektɪd | US: prəˈtektɪd
adj. shielded from harm, damage, or unauthorized access
vt. past tense of "protect": took measures to defend or guard something
The word "protected" combines the Latin-derived root "protect" (from protegere, meaning "to cover in front") and the suffix "-ed," indicating past tense or passive state. The original Latin pro- (forward) + tegere (to cover) reflects the idea of shielding something by covering it. Over time, "protect" evolved in English to mean general defense, and "-ed" standardizes its grammatical function.
The files were password-protected to prevent leaks.
She protected her younger brother from bullies.
Endangered species are legally protected in this area.
The castle walls protected the villagers during the siege.
Wear sunscreen to keep your skin protected from UV rays.