Defence: meaning, definitions and examples

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defence

[ dɪˈfɛns ]

^{Context #1}

legal

The action of defending from or resisting attack.

Synonyms

protection, safeguard, security, shield

Examples of usage

He was forced to shoot in self-defence.
The country needs a strong defence strategy to protect its borders.

^{Context #2}

sports

The action or sport of defending one's goal against the opposition.

Synonyms

backline, guarding, protection

Examples of usage

The team's defence was solid throughout the game.
She plays in the defence position for the soccer team.

^{Context #3}

military

The armed forces or military units assigned to defend a country.

Synonyms

army, forces, military, troops

Examples of usage

The defence budget was increased to strengthen the military.
He served in the air defence division of the army.

Translations

Translations of the word "defence" in other languages:

🇵🇹 defesa

🇮🇳 रक्षा

🇩🇪 Verteidigung

🇮🇩 pertahanan

🇺🇦 захист

🇵🇱 obrona

🇯🇵 防御 (ぼうぎょ)

🇫🇷 défense

🇪🇸 defensa

🇹🇷 savunma

🇰🇷 방어 (bang-eo)

🇸🇦 دفاع

🇨🇿 obrana

🇸🇰 obrana

🇨🇳 防御 (fángyù)

🇸🇮 obramba

🇮🇸 vörn

🇰🇿 қорғаныс

🇬🇪 თავდაცვა (tavdacva)

🇦🇿 müdafiə

🇲🇽 defensa

Word origin

The word 'defence' originated in Middle English from the Old French word 'defens', which comes from the Latin 'defendere', meaning 'to ward off'. The concept of defence has been crucial throughout history, from protecting oneself in battle to safeguarding borders of nations.