He paid the fine 'under protest'. [=he paid the fine although he objected to it]
The students launched/held/staged a 'protest' against the tuition increase.
She told him to go to bed despite his 'protests' that he wasn't tired.
(..) the tedious day with sleep Sleep rock thy brain and never come mischance between us twain Madam, how like you this play? - The lady doth protest too much, methinks - Oh but she'll keep her word Have you heard the argument? ls there no offence in it? No offence in the world. This play (..)2015 Hamlet