verb
defend
To protect against attack or argue in support of someone or something.
The soldiers defend the city against attacks from the north.
Etymology
Latin defendere meant to ward off or protect. Defending preserves that resistance to attack, extending it from physical protection to arguments that protect a person’s position or reputation.
More examples
- She defends her proposal with facts and clear examples.
- He defended his friend against an unfair accusation.
- These birds fiercely defend their nests from predators.
- The lawyer is defending a client accused of theft.
Forms
defend · defends · defended · defending
defender noun — Someone who protects or supports another.
defense noun — Protection against attack or arguments supporting something.