protest

noun

UK/ˈprəʊ.test/
US/ˈproʊ.test/

Definitions of protest noun

  1. CountableUncountable

    A strong expression of disagreement, disapproval, or opposition.

    • Numerous individuals who would be affected by the proposed changes have initiated protests.

    • The German team lodged a formal protest regarding their disqualification from the relay final.

    • Environmental groups have united in protest against the planned construction of the new road.

  2. B2Countable

    An organized event where people express their disagreement with something by gathering, demonstrating, and displaying signs.

    • A public demonstration against the war.

    • A peaceful/violent demonstration.

    • They organized a large protest against the new policy.

Phrases of protest noun

  • under protest

    When an action is performed under protest, it is done unwillingly or with expressed objections.

    She submitted the report on time, albeit under protest.

verb

UK/prəˈtest/
US/proʊˈtest/

Definitions of protest verb

  1. B2TransitiveIntransitive

    To express disagreement with something through public actions such as gathering, shouting, and carrying signs.

    • A large group of demonstrators were protesting the cuts in healthcare expenditure.

    • A group of students outside were protesting the cuts in research funding.

    • Local residents are protesting the construction of a new factory in their neighborhood.

  2. B2TransitiveIntransitive

    To express something strongly or to complain about something.

    • Many people protested the new work schedule.

    • They protested vehemently to their employers, but it was to no avail.

    • A young girl cried, protesting that she did not want to leave her mother.

Idioms

  • protest too much

    To express an opinion or fact so vehemently or frequently that it causes others to doubt its sincerity or truth.

    He always says he doesn't care about getting promoted, but I think he's protesting too much.