2. (Eng. Hist.)
Defn: One having the care of the kingdom during the king's minority;
a regent.
Is it concluded he shall be protector ! Shak.
3. (R. C. Ch.)
Defn: A cardinal, from one of the more considerable Roman Catholic nations, who looks after the interests of his people at Rome; also, a cardinal who has the same relation to a college, religious order, etc. Lord Protector (Eng. Hist.), the title of Oliver Cromwell as supreme governor of the British Commonwealth (1653-1658).
PROTECTORAL
Pro*tect"or*al, a.
Defn: Of or pertaining to a protector; protectorial; as, protectoral power.
PROTECTORATE
Pro*tect"or*ate, n. Etym: [Cf. F. protectorat.]
1. Government by a protector; — applied especially to the government of England by Oliver Cromwell.
2. The authority assumed by a superior power over an inferior or a dependent one, whereby the former protects the latter from invasion and shares in the management of its affairs.
PROTECTORIAL
Pro`tec*to"ri*al, a. Etym: [Cf. L. protectorius.]