Meaning & Definition of word "Defence"

Defence

/dɪˈfɛns/

noun:

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

Meaning: Football defence

Example Sentence: That defence was sick; they totally shut down the opposing team!

Meaning: To play defence

Example Sentence: You gotta play defence, dude, if we want to win this game!