Definitions

1. noun

a device or object used for protection, typically consisting of a flat piece of material, such as metal or wood, attached to a handle or frame

“The knight held up his shield to deflect the arrow”

2. verb

to protect or defend someone or something from harm or criticism

“The politician shielded her opponent from negative media attention”

3. verb

to hide or conceal something, especially from others

“She tried to shield her true feelings from her friend”

4. noun

a protective or defensive mechanism, especially in an organism

“The plant’s natural shield protects it from disease”