Meaning & Definition of word "Defend"

Defend

/dɪˈfɛnd/

verb:

  • 1. To protect from harm or danger.
    • Example: The soldiers were trained to defend their country at all costs.
  • 2. To support or justify a cause, argument, or person.
    • Example: She had to defend her thesis in front of the committee.
  • 3. To resist an attack or challenge.
    • Example: The goalkeeper made a great effort to defend the goal from the opposing team's shots.
  • 4. To provide a legal defense for someone in a court of law.
    • Example: The lawyer was hired to defend the accused in the criminal trial.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French defender, from Latin defendere, from de- 'from' + fendere 'to strike' or 'to strike off'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

defend oneself:

To protect oneself from attack or criticism.

defend the idea:

To argue in favor of a concept or theory.

defend against:

To protect oneself or something from a specific threat.

Related Words

defensive:

Adjective describing actions taken to defend.

defender:

A person who defends someone or something.

defense:

The act of protecting someone or something.

Slang Meanings of defend

Meaning: To back someone up during a disagreement.

Example Sentence: I had to defend my friend when they were being called out.

Meaning: To support a team or player passionately.

Example Sentence: Real fans defend their team no matter the score.