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–n.1. any thing, act, or word that defends, guards, or protects; thing used to guard against attack or harm: »
A wall around a city was a defense against enemies. A well-built house or a warm coat is a defense against cold weather.
SYNONYM(S): protection.2. the act of defending or protecting; a guarding against attack or harm: »The armed forces are responsible for the defense of the country. Millions for defense, but not one cent for tribute (Robert G. Harper).
3. an action, speech, or writing in favor of something: »The poet Shelley wrote a defense of poetry.
SYNONYM(S): support, justification.4. a defending team or force, especially the players defending a goal in a game: »Our football team has a good defense.
5. a) the act or skill of defending oneself in boxing or fencing. b) the method of such defense.6. a) a defendant and his lawyers. b) the answer of a defendant to an accusation or lawsuit against him. c) the methods adopted by the defendant's lawyers in conducting his case.–v.t.U.S. Football. to put up a defense against (an opposing team, player, or tactic): »A team is not “defended against” but “defensed” (Time).
Also, especially British, defence.
Useful english dictionary. 2012.