Defender Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defender

[dษชหˆfษ›ndษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

football

A player in a team sport who is assigned to prevent the opposing team from scoring goals.

Synonyms

guard, guardian, protector, shield.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
defender

Typically used in sports or legal situations where someone defends another person or thing against an attack, criticism, or competition.

  • The soccer team's defender blocked the opponent's shot
  • She was a defender of civil rights in the courtroom
protector

Used broadly to describe someone who keeps others safe from harm or danger, can be physical or abstract protection.

  • As a protector of wildlife, she worked to preserve endangered species
  • He was seen as the protector of the village against threats
guardian

Usually refers to someone legally responsible for another person, often a child, or someone who protects something valuable.

  • After their parents passed away, their aunt became their legal guardian
  • He saw himself as the guardian of the ancient manuscripts
guard

Commonly used to describe someone who physically protects a place, person, or thing, often in a security context.

  • The guard stationed at the entrance ensured no intruders could enter
  • A night guard patrolled the building to prevent break-ins
shield

Often used metaphorically to describe something that serves as a barrier from harm or criticism, but can also refer to physical protection.

  • He acted as a shield against the harsh criticism
  • The company developed new technology as a shield against cyber attacks

Examples of usage

  • The defender made a crucial block in the last minute of the game.
  • She is known for her exceptional skills as a defender.
Context #2 | Noun

law

A person who defends someone or something from harm or danger.

Synonyms

advocate, champion, protector.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
defender

This word is often used to describe someone who protects or supports a person, idea, or place, especially in a context where defense against a threat or criticism is required.

  • She is a staunch defender of human rights.
  • The fortress had many defenders ready to protect it.
protector

Protector is generally used for someone who keeps another safe from harm or danger. It is often found in both formal and informal settings and can imply a more physical or direct form of protection.

  • The dog was a loyal protector of the family.
  • In folklore, dragons are sometimes shown as protectors of treasure.
advocate

Advocate is typically used when talking about someone who actively supports a cause, policy, or proposal, especially in a formal or legal context.

  • He is an advocate for environmental protection.
  • As a lawyer, she is advocating for her client in court.
champion

Champion is used for someone who fights or argues for a cause or on behalf of someone else. It carries a connotation of bringing about significant positive change or success.

  • He is a champion of free speech.
  • She has always championed the cause of education for girls.

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer acted as a defender of human rights in the court.
  • He is a passionate defender of animal welfare.
Context #3 | Noun

technology

A security program or device designed to protect a computer system from unauthorized access or attacks.

Synonyms

antivirus, firewall, security software.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
defender

Use this term when referring to a person or software that protects systems, networks, or information from attacks or unauthorized access. It often implies an active role in protection.

  • The defender successfully blocked multiple hacking attempts.
  • She sees herself as a defender of online privacy.
security software

This is a broad term that encompasses various software solutions designed to protect devices, networks, and data. It includes antivirus, firewalls, encryption tools, and more.

  • Investing in good security software is essential for any business.
  • Security software can safeguard your computer from different types of cyber threats.
antivirus

This word is appropriate when talking specifically about software that detects, prevents, and removes malware and viruses from computers and devices.

  • Ensure your antivirus is updated regularly to protect against new threats.
  • He installed a new antivirus on his laptop to safeguard his data.
firewall

Use this term when referring to a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic. It's often used in contexts involving network protection.

  • The firewall blocked unauthorized access attempts to the server.
  • Setting up a firewall can help protect your personal information.

Examples of usage

  • The firewall acts as a defender against cyber threats.
  • It is important to have a reliable defender installed on your computer.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal contexts, a defender represents someone accused of a crime, ensuring they receive a fair trial.
  • Public defenders are lawyers appointed to help those who cannot afford private legal representation.
  • The right to a defender is a crucial part of the justice system, emphasizing fairness and protection for all.

Sports

  • In sports like soccer and basketball, defenders play crucial roles in stopping opponents from scoring.
  • Defensive positions require quick thinking, strategy, and teamwork to protect their goal.
  • Great defenders are often praised for their ability to anticipate the opponent's moves.

Pop Culture

  • The term appears in many superhero comics and movies, where heroes often take on the role of defenders of justice.
  • The 'Defenders' is a Marvel comic series featuring superheroes who team up to protect New York from threats.
  • In video games, characters often have defender roles, focusing on shielding teammates from harm.

Psychology

  • The concept of defending oneself can relate to psychological defense mechanisms, where individuals protect their emotions.
  • Defending oneโ€™s beliefs can lead to stronger convictions or sometimes result in biases against opposing views.
  • In relationships, being a defender emotionally helps create safety during conflicts, fostering healthy communication.

Origin of 'defender'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin 'defendere', which means to ward off or protect.
  • In Old French, 'defendre' also meant to protect, showing its historical consistency.
  • The usage of 'defender' in English dates back to the early 15th century.

The word 'defender' originated from the Middle English 'defenden', from Old French 'defendre', from Latin 'defendere' (to ward off, protect). The term has evolved over centuries to encompass various meanings relating to protection and defense in different contexts.


See also: defence, defend, defendant, defendants, defended, defenders, defending, defendingly, defense, defensive.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,897, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.