Protege is a person who is guided and supported by an older and more experienced person. Most common alternatives of the word protege are pupil and mentee. It can also mean a disciple. And the guide in this regard can be called a protector or a mentor.

English 'protege' originated from the French word 'protégé'. Plural form of protege is protégés. Feminine form of protege is protégée.

In French language, protégé is a verb that means 'to protect'.