Defend: meaning, definitions and examples

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defend

[ dɪˈfɛnd ]

^{Context #1}

in a legal context

To defend means to protect someone or something from attack, harm, or danger. It can also refer to arguing in favor of someone or something in a legal setting.

Synonyms

guard, protect, shield

Examples of usage

He hired a lawyer to defend him in court.
She defended her thesis against criticism.
The soldiers defended the castle from the enemy.
We must defend our rights as citizens.
The attorney will defend the accused in the trial.

^{Context #2}

in a sports context

To defend in sports means to prevent the opposing team from scoring by blocking their attempts to advance or shoot.

Synonyms

block, guard, protect

Examples of usage

The goalkeeper made a great save to defend the goal.
The basketball player defended the opponent with a strong defense.
The team needs to work on their defending skills.

^{Context #3}

general context

A defend can refer to an act or action of defending someone or something.

Synonyms

defense, guarding, protection

Examples of usage

She put up a strong defend against the criticism.
His defend of the company's policies was admirable.

Translations

Translations of the word "defend" in other languages:

🇵🇹 defender

🇮🇳 रक्षा करना (raksha karna)

🇩🇪 verteidigen

🇮🇩 membela

🇺🇦 захищати

🇵🇱 bronić

🇯🇵 守る (mamoru)

🇫🇷 défendre

🇪🇸 defender

🇹🇷 savunmak

🇰🇷 방어하다 (bang-eohada)

🇸🇦 دافع (daafiʿ)

🇨🇿 bránit

🇸🇰 brániť

🇨🇳 防卫 (fángwèi)

🇸🇮 braniti

🇮🇸 verja

🇰🇿 қорғау (qorǵaw)

🇬🇪 დაცვა (dacva)

🇦🇿 müdafiə etmək

🇲🇽 defender

Word origin

The word 'defend' originated from the Latin word 'defendere', which means 'to ward off, protect'. It has been used in English since the 13th century, evolving from its Latin roots to encompass various meanings related to protection, legal advocacy, and sports. The concept of defending has been essential throughout history, from defending territories in wars to defending rights in legal battles.