defend

Definition

  • verb: to fight in order to keep (someone or something) safe
  • verb: to drive danger or attack away from
  • often + 'from' or 'against'
  • synonyms: protect, prohibit, forbid

Examples

  • The team is looking to 'defend' its national title. [=to win the national title again]

  • As a U.S. senator, it is my responsibility to 'defend' [='uphold'] the Constitution.

  • She successfully 'defended' her championship. [=she won the championship again]

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) I said, "You wrong, man. You dead wrong! Mr Finch ain't takin' his story against ours." - They was wrong, wasn't they? - I'm appointed to defend Tom Robinson. Now that he's been charged, that's what I intend to do. - You takin' his story-- - If you'll excuse me. What kind of man are you? (..)
    1962 To Kill a Mockingbird
  • (..) - Run along now. I'll see you there for dinner. Hey, howdy, Cap'n. - Mr Ewell. - Cap'n, l-- I'm real sorry they picked you to defend that nigger that raped my Mayella. I don't know why I didn't kill him myself instead of goin' to the sheriff. I'd have saved you and the sheriff (..)
    1962 To Kill a Mockingbird