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defense
/dɪˈfɛns/
protection or resistance against attack
The country strengthened its defense against cyber threats.
The country improved its protection against digital attacks.
general
Protection or resistance against attack or harm
The castle had strong defenses against invaders.
The castle was well-protected against attackers.
Can refer to physical protection, legal protection, or abstract resistance.
Law
formal
A legal argument or strategy to protect against accusations
The lawyer prepared a strong defense for the client.
The lawyer created a solid legal argument to protect the client.
In legal contexts, 'defense' refers to the arguments and evidence used to counter accusations.
informal
A team or system responsible for preventing the opposing team from scoring in sports
The defense played exceptionally well, blocking all shots.
The defensive team performed very well, stopping all attempts to score.
In sports like football or basketball, 'defense' refers to the players or strategies used to prevent the other team from scoring.
Collocations
national defensethe protection of a country's borders and securitylegal defensethe arguments and evidence used in court to protect a clientdefense mechanisma psychological or biological response to protect oneself
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Legal Context
In legal contexts, 'defense' refers to the arguments and evidence used to protect a client against accusations.
Sports Context
In sports, 'defense' refers to the team or strategies used to prevent the opposing team from scoring.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning of 'defense' can vary significantly depending on the context, so pay attention to the domain (e.g., military, legal, sports).
Word Origin
From Old French 'défense,' from Latin 'defensio,' meaning 'protection,' from 'defendere' (to defend).
Usage Notes
The word 'defense' can be used in both literal and abstract contexts, such as military, legal, or psychological protection.
Word Breakdown
de-
from, away from
prefix-fense
protection, defense
rootEnglish Dictionary