Defended Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก๏ธ
defended
[dษชหfษndษชd ]
Definitions
in a legal context
To defend means to protect oneself against a legal challenge by denying the truth of the allegations made.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| defended |
This word is commonly used when talking about protecting someone or something from attack or harm. It often appears in military, legal, or debate contexts.
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| protect |
This word is used when you want to keep someone or something safe from harm, danger, or injury. It is often used in general or everyday situations.
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| safeguard |
This term is used in more formal contexts, often involving measures or actions put in place to prevent potential harm. It is common in business, law, and health contexts.
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| justify |
Use this when you need to give reasons or explanations for something, often to show that it is reasonable or necessary. It can appear in both positive and negative situations.
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Examples of usage
- He defended himself against the false accusations in court.
- The lawyer defended his client's innocence with strong evidence.
in a sports context
To defend means to attempt to prevent the opposition from scoring in a game or match.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| defended |
This word is often used when someone stands up for or protects a person, idea, or place against an attack or criticism.
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| guard |
This word is used when someone watches over a person, place, or thing to protect it from harm or maintain order.
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| shield |
This word is often used when someone or something provides protection from danger, harm, or unjust actions.
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| block |
This word is typically used when someone or something prevents movement or access to a place, person, or thing.
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Examples of usage
- The goalkeeper defended the goal with great skill.
- The team worked together to defend their lead until the end of the game.
in a general context
To defend means to support or uphold a particular idea, belief, or person.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| defended |
Use this word when someone is protecting themselves, someone else, or an idea from criticism or attack.
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| support |
Support can be used in a wide variety of contexts, including providing emotional, financial, or moral help.
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| back up |
This is a more casual phrase for giving support or helping prove something. Often used in conversation or less formal situations.
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| uphold |
Often used in more formal or legal contexts when ensuring that principles, laws, or decisions are maintained.
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Examples of usage
- She defended her friend's actions when others criticized him.
- The politician defended his controversial decision in a press conference.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In law, a defendant is someone who is defending themselves against accusations in a court.
- Legal defenses can include arguing self-defense, necessity, or lack of intent to show protection of one's rights.
Military Studies
- Military strategy involves defending territory from adversaries, often employing tactics like fortifications and ambushes.
- The concept of a 'defensive line' in military terms refers to a frontline meant to protect and withstand attacks.
Psychology
- Psychologically, defending can refer to protecting one's self-esteem or beliefs from criticism.
- Defense mechanisms are strategies used by the mind to avoid feeling anxiety, such as rationalization or denial.
Sports
- In sports like football or basketball, defending refers to the actions taken to prevent the other team from scoring.
- Effective defending can require both physical skill and strategic thinking, similar to chess where players predict moves.
Origin of 'defended'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'defended' comes from the Latin word 'defendere', meaning 'to ward off' or 'protect'.
- It has been used in English since the 14th century, originally denoting the act of protecting someone in a legal context.
The word 'defended' originated from the Old French word 'defendre' which came from the Latin word 'defendere', meaning 'to ward off, protect'. The term has been used since the 14th century in English with the same meaning of protecting or justifying oneself or others.
See also: defence, defend, defendant, defendants, defender, defenders, defending, defendingly, defense, defensive.