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v. pro·test·ed, pro·test·ing, pro·tests v.tr. 1. a. To express a strong objection to (something): protest a job assignment. b. To participate in a public demonstration in opposition to (something): Thousands protested the election fraud. See Synonyms at object. 2. To promise or affirm earnestly, as after being doubted: "He continually protested his profound respect" (Frank Norris). 3. Law To declare an objection and reservation of rights of (a claim being made) while taking an action that would otherwise imply consent or agreement. 4. Archaic To proclaim or make known: "unrough youths that even now / Protest their first of manhood" (Shakespeare). v.intr. 1. a. To express a strong objection. b. To participate in a public demonstration in opposition to something. 2. To make an earnest avowal or affirmation. n. (prōtĕst′) 1. A formal declaration of disapproval or objection issued by a concerned person, group, or organization. 2. A public demonstration or organized effort to show disapproval about something, especially a governmental policy or practice. 3. Law A declaration of objection and reservation of rights, made when action would otherwise imply consent or agreement: payment under protest. [Middle English protesten, from Old French protester, from Latin prōtestārī : prō-, forth; see PRO-1 + testārī, to testify (from testis, witness; see trei- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots).] protest′er n. pro·testing·ly adv. |
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