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Defense Definition, Examples, and Usage Guide (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：protection against attack (defense)
defense
/dɪˈfɛns/
n.
The action of protecting yourself, a place, or something from attack or harm.
protection against attack
➕
/prəˈtɛkʃən əˈɡɛnst əˈtæk/
n.
The act of protecting oneself, a place, or something from harm or danger, especially from physical assault or invasion.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'defendere' (de- 'away' + fendere 'to strike'); originally 'ward off'.
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a 'de-fence' (a fence) built to defend your home.
📖 Example
The ancient castle had high walls and a moat for defense against invaders.
The ancient castle had high walls and a moat for defense against invaders.
🔗 Collocations
in defense of – for the protection or support of
self-defense – the act of protecting oneself
defense mechanism – a psychological or physical reaction that protects against harm
🔄 Synonyms
protection (n.) – the act of keeping someone or something safe
guard (n.) – a person or thing that protects
safeguard (n.) – a measure taken to protect against harm
🚫 Antonyms
attack (n.) – an act of aggression
vulnerability (n.) – the state of being exposed to harm
offense (n.) – the act of attacking
🌱 Derivatives
defend (v.) – to protect from attack
defensive (adj.) – used or intended for defense
defenseless (adj.) – without defense
📖 Cultural Story
Evolved from Latin 'defendere' through Old French 'defense'. Used in military contexts since the 13th century; later expanded to law and argumentation.
Meaning 2：legal or rhetorical support (defense)
defense
/dɪˈfɛns/
n.
The act of speaking or writing to support someone or something that is being criticized or accused.
legal or rhetorical support
➕
/ˈliːɡəl ɔːr rɪˈtɔːrɪkəl səˈpɔːrt/
n.
The act of presenting arguments or evidence to justify or excuse someone or something, especially in a legal or debate context.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The lawyer presented a strong defense for the artist, arguing that his work was a form of free expression.
The lawyer presented a strong defense for the artist, arguing that his work was a form of free expression.
🔗 Collocations
defense attorney – a lawyer who represents the accused
case for the defense – the argument or evidence supporting the defendant
defense witness – a witness testifying on behalf of the defendant
🔄 Synonyms
justification (n.) – the act of showing something to be right or reasonable
vindication (n.) – the act of clearing someone of blame or suspicion
apologia (n.) – a formal defense of a position or action
🚫 Antonyms
prosecution (n.) – the institution of legal proceedings against someone
accusation (n.) – a charge or claim that someone has done something illegal
condemnation (n.) – the expression of strong disapproval
🌱 Derivatives
defend (v.) – to speak or act in support of
defendant (n.) – the person accused in a court of law
defensible (adj.) – able to be justified or protected
Wordbook
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