To defend is to protect someone or something from harm, attack, or criticism.
It comes from Old French “defendre,” from Latin “defendere,” meaning “to ward off, protect,” from “de-” (away) and “fendere” (to strike). The original image is striking away what comes toward you.
Defense isn’t only physical; you can defend ideas, reputations, or your own boundaries. The same basic action—pushing danger away—shows up in sports, law, debates, and everyday arguments.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.