protege
UK[ˈprɒt.ə.ʒeɪ]US[ˈproʊ.tə.ʒeɪ]
n
a young person who is taught and helped by someone who has a lot of knowledge and experience
Etymology
The word 'protégé' entered English in the late 18th century directly from French, where it means 'protected'. Its ultimate source is the Latin verb 'protegere', composed of 'pro-' (in front of, for) and 'tegere' (to cover). The literal Latin sense of 'to cover in front' evolved into the abstract meaning 'to shield or defend'. In its journey into English, the French form was retained to specifically denote a person, especially a young one, who receives guidance and patronage from an influential mentor, thus carrying the core concept of one who is intellectually and professionally sheltered and fostered.
Analysis
The word is a direct loan from French, adopted as a single lexical unit. It is derived from the past participle of the French verb 'protéger', meaning 'to protect'.
Examples
The famous composer considered the young pianist his most gifted protege.
She quickly became the senator's protege and learned the intricacies of political strategy.
Many of the firm's partners started as proteges of the founding CEO.