a broad piece of metal or another suitable material, held by straps or a handle attached on one side, used as a protection against blows or missiles

a person or thing providing protection

a coating of grease provides a shield against abrasive dirt

a large rigid area of the earth's crust, typically of Precambrian rock, which has been unaffected by later orogenic episodes, e.g. the Canadian Shield

protect from a danger, risk, or unpleasant experience

he pulled the cap lower to shield his eyes from the glare

these people have been completely shielded from economic forces

remain apart from others for a period of time in order to avoid catching an infectious disease to which one may be particularly vulnerable

they are shielding to protect their own health