Definition and meaning of English word "defense"
defense
/dɪˈfɛns/
Meaning
NounThe action of defending or protecting from attack, danger, or injury.
How to use
The term 'defense' can be used in various contexts, including law, sports, and national security. In law, 'defense' refers to the action of protecting oneself or one's interests. A common mistake is to confuse 'defense' with 'defensive,' which describes a mindset or attitude.
🇬🇧 English
defense
Example
The defense presented several credible witnesses to support the client's alibi.
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- national defense— the defense of a nation
- defense mechanism— a psychological defense mechanism
- defense attorney— a lawyer who specializes in defense
This concept in other languages
Frequency rank: #1347 in English
Learn them all! 🚀
Master the 1000 most common English words with smart explanations, audio pronunciation, and spaced repetition.
Start Learning For Free →No sign-up required
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the English word "defense" mean?▼
The English word "defense" means "defense" in English.
How do you pronounce the English word "defense"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "defense" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "defense"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "The defense presented several credible witnesses to support the client's alibi." (which translates as "defense").
More Law & Society words
Related reading
Duolingo vs Anki vs Apps: Comparing Language Learning Methods in 2026
An honest comparison of popular language learning approaches: gamified apps, SRS flashcards, textbooks, tutors, and immersion. Pros, cons, and who each is best for.
Read →MethodWhat Is Spaced Repetition? The SM-2 Algorithm Explained Simply
Spaced repetition is the single most effective method for memorizing vocabulary. Learn how the forgetting curve works, how the SM-2 algorithm calculates review intervals, and why 20 minutes a day beats 2 hours of cramming.
Read →