# shield

**Pronunciation:** /ʃiːld/ · sheeld

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** noun

## Meaning 1: Warfare

A piece of armor carried on the arm or held in the hand, used for protection against blows or missiles.

## Examples

- The Roman legionaries advanced, their large rectangular shields locked together.
- He used his shield to deflect the sword thrust.
- The ancient warriors wore helmets and carried shields into battle.

## Meaning 2: Protection

A person or thing that protects or defends someone or something.

## Examples

- The king was a shield for his people against foreign invaders.
- She acted as a shield for her younger brother, taking the blame.
- This new policy will serve as a shield against rising costs.

## Meaning 3: Figurative

A symbol of protection, honor, or authority, often used in heraldry.

## Examples

- The family crest featured a shield with a lion rampant.
- The national emblem is a shield bearing the country's flag.
- He was awarded a shield for his outstanding service.

## Meaning 4: Verb

To protect someone or something from harm or danger.

## Examples

- The thick walls shielded the inhabitants from the noise.
- He shielded his eyes from the bright sun.
- The company tried to shield its employees from the economic downturn.

## Synonyms

- protection — General safety from harm or danger.
- defense — Action taken to resist an attack or threat.
- guard — A person or thing that protects or watches over.
- bulwark — A defensive wall or rampart; a figurative strong defense.

## Antonyms

- attack — An aggressive act or movement.
- vulnerability — The state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed.

## Common patterns

- shield from — To protect from something harmful. — The roof shielded the house from the rain.
- shield against — To protect against a specific threat or danger. — The government introduced measures to shield the economy against inflation.
- shield someone/something — To protect someone or something. — The company tried to shield its profits from taxation.

## Collocations

- raise a shield — The warrior raised his shield to defend himself.
- carry a shield — Each soldier was trained to carry a shield effectively.
- under the shield of — They conducted their illegal activities under the shield of diplomatic immunity.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/shielded

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