Defensing: meaning, definitions and examples
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defensing
[ dɪˈfɛn.dɪŋ ]
sport context
Defensing refers to the action of protecting a particular area or player in sports, particularly in games like football, basketball, and soccer. It involves strategies and techniques used to prevent the opposing team from scoring. Good defending is crucial for a team's success and can make a significant difference in the outcome of a game.
Synonyms
guarding, protecting, shielding
Examples of usage
- The defender was excellent at defending the penalty area.
- In basketball, she excels at defending against faster players.
- They practiced various techniques for defending against attacks.
Etymology
The term 'defense' is derived from the Old French 'defens', which meant to ward off or protect. Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'defendere', where 'de-' denotes removal or reversal, and 'fendere' means to strike or hit. This Latin origin suggests that the act of defending encompasses both a proactive element (striking against an attack) and a reactive response (warding off harmful actions). Over time, the concept evolved into various fields, particularly sports, where 'defense' describes strategies employed to stop opponents from scoring. In the 19th century, the term began to be commonly used in sports terminology, especially in team sports where the concept of defending became integral to the game.