Want to say defend differently? Here are other words for defend and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of defend
The primary meaning of the word "defend" is to protect or guard something from attack or harm.
Etymology of defend
The word "defend" originated from the Old French word "defendre," which is derived from the Latin word "defendere," meaning "to ward off" or "to protect"
The Latin word "defendere" is a combination of "de" (meaning "from" or "away") and "fendere" (meaning "to strike" or "to hit")
The word "defend" has been used in the English language since the 13th century, initially with the meaning of "to protect" or "to guard," and later with the additional meaning of "to argue or speak in support of someone or something"
Synonyms
Definitions
- To protect or guard someone or something from attack or harm
- To argue or speak in support of someone or something
- To protect someone or something from criticism or attack by arguing or speaking in their support
- To play or act in a particular way so as to prevent the other side from scoring or achieving something
Usage Examples
- The team will defend their title in the championship game
- She defended her thesis in front of the panel
- The lawyer defended his client against the charges
- The country's military will defend its borders against any aggression
- He defended his decision to quit his job and travel the world