1. to protect someone or something from attack or harm
2. to speak or argue in support of someone or something
3. to try to prevent the opposing team from scoring in sports
Usage: sports

Examples

• The soldier defends his country from invasion.
• She always defends her younger brother when others tease him.
• The lawyer defends her client in court.
• He defends his decision to quit his job.
• The goalkeeper defends the net during the game.
• The castle walls defended the city from enemies.
• She defends her research findings against criticism.