Defend meaning

What does “defend” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“defend” is a verb with 7 meanings. Its most common meaning is: argue or speak in defense of.

defend

argue or speak in defense of
“She supported the motion to strike”
Synonymssupport fend for
be on the defensive; act against an attack
Oppositesattack
protect against a challenge or attack
“Hold that position behind the trees!”
“Hold the bridge against the enemy's attacks”
Synonymsguard hold
fight against or resist strongly
“The senator said he would oppose the bill”
“Don't fight it!”
Synonymsfight oppose fight back fight down
protect or fight for as a champion
Synonymschampion
be the defense counsel for someone in a trial
“Ms. Smith will represent the defendant”
Synonymsrepresent
Oppositesprosecute
state or assert
“He maintained his innocence”
Synonymsmaintain

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University