protectress

From protector +‎ -ess.

• (UK) IPA^(key): /pɹəˈtɛktɹɪs/

protectress (plural protectresses)

1. A female protector.
   • 1897, Henry James, What Maisie Knew:

     Her protectress, at this, was upon her again [...]. For the rest of the conversation she was enclosed in Mrs. Wix's arms [...].

   • 2007 March 11, Michael Kimmelman, “The Goal Standard”, in New York Times‎:

     In Titian’s hands, Diana, protectress of pubescent girls, became a sporty archer in tie-up sandals and bracelets, hair gathered in a loose bun, a silky tunic gaping to reveal one breast, shooting an arrow at her hunky voyeur, who has newly furry ears and a shiny nose, dogs nipping at his crotch.

• protectrix

• retrospects