defend

/dɪˈfɛnd/
verb
  1. To protect someone or something from harm, attack, or danger.
    • Soldiers defend their country against invaders.
    • The vaccine helps defend the body against the flu.
    • She defended her little brother from the school bully.
  2. To support or argue in favor of someone or something against criticism or opposition.
    • He defended his decision to change jobs during the meeting.
    • The author defended her book against negative reviews.
    • They defended the policy as necessary for public safety.
  3. To try to prevent the opposing team from scoring in a sport.
    • The team worked hard to defend their goal in the final minutes.
    • She is known for her ability to defend against fast breaks.
    • The defenders must defend the basket from three-point shots.
  4. To act as a lawyer for someone accused of a crime.
    • He chose a well-known lawyer to defend him.
    • The attorney will defend the accused in court.
    • She was hired to defend the company in the lawsuit.
Antonyms
What does "defend" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean