What is "lord protector"

Protector \Pro*tect"or\, n. [L.: cf. F. protecteur.]

1. One who, or that which, defends or shields from injury, evil, oppression, etc.; a defender; a guardian; a patron.

   For the world's protector shall be known.
   --Waller.

2. (Eng. Hist.) One having the care of the kingdom during the king's minority; a regent.

   Is it concluded he shall be protector !
   --Shak.

3. (R. C. Ch.) A cardinal, from one of the more considerable Roman Catholic nations, who looks after the interests of his people at Rome; also, a cardinal who has the same relation to a college, religious order, etc.

   Lord Protector (Eng. Hist.), the title of Oliver Cromwell as supreme governor of the British Commonwealth (1653-1658).

alt. 1 Title of the regent for the king(dom) of England and/or king(dom) of Scotland. 2 Title of the head of state of the Commonwealth 3 (rare) English rendering of vidame 4 English rendering of temporary regent, acting for the absent monarchic head of state. n. 1 Title of the regent for the king(dom) of England and/or king(dom) of Scotland. 2 Title of the head of state of the Commonwealth 3 (rare) English rendering of vidame 4 English rendering of temporary regent, acting for the absent monarchic head of state.

Lord Protector (pl. Lords Protector) is a title that has been used in British constitutional law for heads of state. It is also a particular title for the British heads of state in respect to the established church. It is sometimes used to render in English other posts of temporary regent, acting for the absent monarchic head of state.