Defence

/dɪˈfɛns/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The action of defending from or resisting attack.
The team put up a strong defence against their opponents in the final match.
The means of protecting someone or something from harm.
He hired a lawyer for his defence in the court case.
The case presented by an individual accused of a crime.
The defence argued that there was insufficient evidence to convict him.
A method of protecting oneself; a strategy to avoid losses.
The company's defence against competition included innovative marketing strategies.
The action of defending one's rights or interests.
Her fierce defence of the environment has inspired many activists.

Etymology

From Old French 'defens', from Latin 'defensio'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

stand your ground
To maintain your position and not yield to pressure.
defence mechanism
An unconscious psychological strategy used to cope with reality and maintain self-image.
hold the line
To maintain one's position or stance in the face of opposition.

Related Words

defend
To protect someone or something from harm.
defendant
A person accused in a court of law.
defensible
Justifiable by argument; capable of being defended.

Slang Meanings

Football defence
That defence was sick; they totally shut down the opposing team!
To play defence
You gotta play defence, dude, if we want to win this game!