noun

defense

defence, protection, guard

The city's defense against attack was strong.

The city's defence against attack was strong.

The team has a very good defense.

The team has a very good defence.

His lawyer prepared a strong defense.

His lawyer prepared a strong defence.

defence against ((sth.)) protection from (sth.) The city's defence against attack was strong.

in defence of ((sb./sth.)) to support (sb./sth.) He spoke in defence of his friend.

a [adjective] defence the players who defend in a sport The team has a good defence.

Synonyms: protection, security, guard; Antonyms: offence, attack

From Latin 'defendere' meaning 'to ward off, protect'. 'de-' (off) + '-fendere' (to strike).

Think of putting up a 'fence' to 'de-fend' or protect your property. Note the spelling difference: 'defence' (UK noun) vs. 'defense' (US noun).

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.