1. Noun:
* A defensive object, typically made of metal, wood, or leather, held in the hand or worn on the arm to protect against attack. This is the most common meaning and refers to a physical object.
* Example: "The knight raised his shield to deflect the arrow."
* Something that protects or defends. This is a more figurative meaning.
* Example: "The forest was a shield against the harsh wind."
2. Verb:
* To protect something or someone from harm.
* Example: "The police officer shielded the child from the oncoming traffic."
* To protect oneself from something unpleasant or harmful.
* Example: "He shielded his eyes from the bright sun."
Here are some additional nuances to consider:
* The verb "shield" can also mean to hide something or someone, usually to protect them.
* Example: "The mother shielded her child's eyes from the gruesome scene."
* The noun "shield" can also refer to a type of shield, such as a heat shield or a radiation shield.
It's important to look at the context of the sentence to determine the specific meaning of the word "shield."