1. people who protect someone or something from attack or harm
2. players in sports whose main job is to prevent the opposing team from scoring
Usage: sports
3. people who support or argue in favor of something

Examples

• The castle’s defenders fought bravely against the invading army.
• The soccer team’s defenders blocked every shot on goal.
• She is one of the strongest defenders of civil rights.
• The defenders of the city prepared for a long siege.
• The basketball team needs better defenders to stop fast breaks.
• Environmental defenders protested the new factory construction.
• The defenders held their position despite heavy enemy fire.