Defended: meaning, definitions and examples
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defended
[dɪˈfɛndɪd ]
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 |
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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 |
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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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "defended" in other languages:
🇵🇹 defendeu
🇮🇳 रक्षा की
🇩🇪 verteidigte
🇮🇩 membela
🇺🇦 захистив
🇵🇱 bronił
🇯🇵 守った (mamotta)
🇫🇷 défendu
🇪🇸 defendió
🇹🇷 savundu
🇰🇷 방어했다 (bang-eohaetda)
🇸🇦 دافع
🇨🇿 bránil
🇸🇰 bránil
🇨🇳 防卫了 (fángwèi le)
🇸🇮 branil
🇮🇸 varði
🇰🇿 қорғады
🇬🇪 დაიცვა (daitsva)
🇦🇿 müdafiə etdi
🇲🇽 defendió