defend
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈfɛnd/
KK: /dɪˈfɛnd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To protect oneself or something from harm or attack; to take action to support or justify something.
Example
In the game, the players must defend their goal from the opposing team.
Tense Forms
Past: defended
Past Participle: defended
Conversation
Did you see how well our team defended in the last match?
Yeah, they were amazing! It was like a wall.
I think they really practiced their strategies to defend better.
Definitely! It paid off in the end.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
guard
protect
shield
Antonyms
attack
assail
betray
transitive verb
Definition
To protect someone or something from harm or attack, or to argue in support of a person or idea.
Example
The lawyer will defend her client in court.
Tense Forms
Past: defended
Past Participle: defended
Conversation
Are you going to watch the game tonight?
Of course! I can't wait to see how they defend their title.
I hope they can really defend against the other team’s offense this time.
Root Explanation
Defend → It is formed from "de-" (meaning from or away) and "fendere" (meaning to strike or to ward off). The word "defend" means to ward off or protect against an attack or harm.
Memory Tip
Think of 'warding off' an attack — 'de-' suggests moving away from something, and 'fendere' means to strike. This helps you remember that to defend means to protect against an attack.
Visually Confused Words
depend
deafen
predefend
fend
deed