Defend: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when talking about protecting someone or something from an attack, criticism, or danger. This can be both physical and verbal defense.

• The lawyer will defend her client in court.
• The soldiers were brave as they defended their country.

Best for general situations where one wants to keep someone or something safe from harm, damage, or injury, often implying a more proactive and ongoing action.

• Parents always protect their children.
• Sunscreen helps protect your skin from UV rays.

This word is best utilized when referring to someone or something that keeps watch over something to prevent harm or unauthorized access.

• The security officers guard the museum at night.
• He was hired to guard the entrance to the building.

Most suitable in contexts where there is an act of covering or safeguarding someone or something from a specific threat or impact, often implying a physical barrier.

• He shielded his eyes from the bright sunlight.
• The warrior used his shield to block the enemy's attacks.

This word is often used when you're talking about protecting something or someone from physical or verbal attack. It can be used in formal or informal situations.

• He had to defend himself from the accusations in court.
• The team worked together to defend their goal from the opponents.

This word is used when you are keeping someone or something safe from harm or injury. It can be used in both physical and emotional contexts.

• She always tries to protect her younger brother from bullies.
• Sunscreen helps to protect your skin from UV rays.

This word is often used in a context where someone is watching over and protecting a place, person, or object. It implies a continuous or duty-bound action.

• The soldiers were stationed to guard the entrance.
• They hired a security company to guard their house.

This word is used when you mean to stop something from passing through or to obstruct something. It can be applied to physical and non-physical barriers.

• She used her hand to block the sun from her eyes.
• The firewall blocks suspicious activity from entering the network.

Used when someone needs to protect themselves or someone else verbally or physically from an attack or criticism.

• She had to defend herself against the accusations
• The team will defend their title in the next championship game

Represents a broader concept of keeping someone or something safe, applicable in various scenarios including legal, physical, and emotional safety.

• They installed new locks for added protection
• The insurance provides protection against damages and theft

Refers to the act of protecting oneself or something from harm, often used in legal, sports, and military contexts.

• The lawyer presented a strong defense for his client
• The defense team worked together to prevent the opponents from scoring

Indicates actively watching over someone or something to prevent harm or unauthorized access, often used in security or military contexts.

• The sentry was guarding the entrance to the building
• He spent the night guarding the valuables