The process of keeping (something or someone) safe.
(ux)
(RQ:RJfrs AmtrPqr)
But then I had the flintlock by me for protection. ¶ There were giants in the days when that gun was made; for surely no modern mortal could have held that mass of metal steady to his shoulder. The linen-press and a chest on the top of it formed, however, a very good gun-carriage; and, thus mounted, aim could be taken out of the window(nb..).
The state of being safe.
A means of keeping or remaining safe.
A means, such as a condom, of preventing pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease.