Defending
/dɪˈfɛndɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo protect from attack or harm; to uphold or maintain; to speak or write in support of.
/dɪˈfɛndɪŋ/
Protecting someone or something from attack or harm.
The dog was barking, defending its territory.
💡 Simply: Like being a superhero and keeping something safe! Imagine your friend is getting picked on - you are defending them by stepping in and helping.
👶 For kids: Keeping something safe from getting hurt.
More Examples
The lawyer is defending his client in court.
We are defending the environment against pollution.
How It's Used
"The soldiers were defending their position against the enemy."
"The lawyer is defending the accused in court."
"The team is defending their title this season."
In sports, to try to prevent the other team from scoring.
/dɪˈfɛndɪŋ/
Competing to prevent an opponent from scoring in a sport.
The team needs to improve their defending skills.
💡 Simply: Think about playing a game. Defending means trying to stop the other team from getting points! Like in soccer when you try to block the ball.
👶 For kids: Trying to stop the other team from getting points in a game.
More Examples
The goalkeeper was excellent at defending the goal.
She was defending her position in the soccer game.
How It's Used
"The player was defending against a penalty kick."
"The team's strong defense was key to defending their lead."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
the best defense is a good offense
The most effective way to protect yourself is to take action or be proactive.
"Instead of waiting for problems to happen, we took action and started implementing new strategies; the best defense is a good offense."
From Middle English *defenden*, from Old French *defendre*, from Latin *defendere* ('to ward off, protect').
The term has been used in legal and military contexts since the 14th century.
Memory tip
Think of a knight protecting a castle – defending his territory.
Word Origin
"to ward off, protect"