- resistance against attack; protection: Two more regiments are needed for the defense of the city.
- something that guards against harm, such as a fortification, physical or mental quality, or medication: This fort was once the main defense of the island.
- the support of a cause or the like by speech, argument, etc.: He spoke in defense of the nation's foreign policy.
- a speech, argument, etc., in vindication: She delivered a defense of free enterprise.
- Law.
- the denial or pleading of the defendant in answer to the claim or charge that has been made.
- the proceedings adopted by a defendant or the defendant's legal agents, for defending against the charges that have been made.
- a defendant and their counsel.
- defense mechanism (def. 2).
- Sports.
- the practice or art of shielding oneself or one's goal from attack, as in fencing, boxing, soccer, or football.
- the team attempting to thwart the attack of the team having the ball or puck.
- the players of a team who line up in their own defensive zone.
- the positions on the field, ice, etc., taken by such players.
- the Department of Defense.
- to defend against (an opponent, play, or tactic).
