Defendable: meaning, definitions and examples
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defendable
[ dɪˈfɛndəbl ]
legal use
Defendable refers to something that can be defended in a legal sense, often during a lawsuit or legal argument. It signifies that a position, claim, or action has a reasonable basis that can withstand scrutiny.
Synonyms
justifiable, supportable, tenable
Examples of usage
- The defendant's actions were considered defensible.
- The lawyer presented a defendable case in court.
- Her argument was well-researched and defendable.
Word origin
The word 'defendable' is derived from the verb 'defend', which comes from the Latin word 'defendere', meaning 'to ward off, protect, or shield'. The Latin term is composed of 'de-' meaning 'from' and 'fendere' meaning 'to strike'. Over time, the suffix '-able' was added to form an adjective that indicates capability. The usage of 'defendable' emerged in English to indicate something that stands up to challenge or criticism, particularly in legal and philosophical contexts. It has been used increasingly in discussions around legal defenses, ethics, and even strategies in debate, emphasizing the importance of having a substantiated position that can be maintained under pressure.