defense
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈfɛns/
KK: /dɪˈfɛns/
noun
Definition
A way to protect or support something, often used in legal or sports contexts.
Example
The team's defense was strong, preventing the other side from scoring any points.
Conversation
Did you see how strong their defense was in the game last night?
Yeah, it was impressive! They really shut down the other team.
I think a solid defense is key to winning championships.
Absolutely, you can't underestimate the importance of good defense.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
protection
safeguard
justification
Antonyms
attack
offense
aggression
transitive verb
Definition
To take action to protect or guard against an attack or challenge.
Example
The team worked hard to defense their goal during the match.
Tense Forms
Past: defensed
Past Participle: defensed
Conversation
Did you see how well our team defense played last night?
Yeah, they really stepped up and stopped the other team from scoring.
I think practicing those drills really paid off.
Root Explanation
Defense → It is formed from "defendere" (meaning to ward off or protect) and the suffix "-se" (indicating a noun). The word "defense" refers to the act of protecting or warding off an attack.
Memory Tip
Think of the act of 'warding off' ('defendere') threats — that's why defense means protection.
Visually Confused Words
undefense
dense
undefensed
predefense
nondefense