Word: Shield
Part of Speech: Noun and Verb
Usage Instructions:
As a noun, "shield" can refer to both physical objects (like armor) and metaphorical protections (like emotional shields).
As a verb, "shield" is often followed by a direct object (the thing or person being protected).
Examples:
Advanced Usage:
Noun: In a metaphorical sense, "shield" can describe things like "emotional shields" where someone protects their feelings.
Verb: "He shielded his friend from criticism by speaking up in their defense."
Word Variants:
Different Meanings:
Shield (noun): In a biological context, it can refer to the protective outer layer of certain organisms, like the hard shell of an arthropod.
Shield (verb): In a social context, it can refer to protecting someone’s reputation or feelings.
Synonyms:
For noun: Barrier, protection, armor, defense.
For verb: Protect, guard, cover, conceal.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
"Shield someone from something": This means to protect someone from a specific danger or harm. For example, "He shielded her from the harsh criticism."
"Behind a shield": This can refer to someone who is protected from danger or criticism, either literally or figuratively.
Summary:
The word "shield" can refer to both a physical object used for protection and the action of protecting or hiding something.