noun

defense

dih-FENS/dɪˈfens/

Action protecting something against attack.

The goalkeeper's diving defense stops the incoming ball from reaching the net.

A goalkeeper dives between an incoming ball and the goal, protecting the net from attack.

Etymology

“Strike or push away” supplies the image of warding off an attack. Defense extends that protective action to words as well as physical force: an argument can repel a charge just as a guard repels an assault.

In context

Joe DeRisi13:34

What is that? It's an antiviral defense enzyme.

Solving medical mysteries

TED presenter13:21

testified in defense of Stroman's life,

Anand Giridharadas: A tale of two Americas. And the mini-mart where they collided

More examples

The immune system is the body's main defense against infection.
The soldiers build defenses around the village.
She raises her arms in defense as the dog lunges.

Forms

defense · defenses

defend verb — Protect someone or something against attack.

defensive adjective — Intended to protect against attack or harm.

Similar words

protection: Covers safety from many dangers, not just attacks.
resistance: Emphasizes actively opposing an attack rather than providing protection.