defence

(noun) (psychiatry) an unconscious process that tries to reduce the anxiety associated with instinctive desires. Synonyms: defense mechanism, defense reaction, defence mechanism, defence reaction, defense.

(noun) (sports) the team that is trying to prevent the other team from scoring. Synonyms: defense, defending team. Example: "His teams are always good on defense."

(noun) the defendant and his legal advisors collectively. Synonyms: defense, defense team, defense lawyers. Example: "The defense called for a mistrial."

(noun) an organization of defenders that provides resistance against attack. Synonyms: defense, defense force, defence force. Example: "He joined the defense against invasion."

(noun) the speech act of answering an attack on your assertions. Synonyms: refutation, defense. Examples: "His refutation of the charges was short and persuasive." "In defense he said the other man started it."

(noun) the justification for some act or belief. Synonyms: defense, vindication. Example: "He offered a persuasive defense of the theory."

(noun) a structure used to defend against attack. Synonyms: defensive structure, defense. Example: "The artillery battered down the defenses."

(noun) a defendant's answer or plea denying the truth of the charges against him. Synonyms: defense, denial, demurrer. Example: "He gave evidence for the defense."

(noun) (military) military action or resources protecting a country against potential enemies. Synonyms: defense, defensive measure. Examples: "They died in the defense of stalingrad." "They were developed for the defense program."

(noun) protection from harm. Synonyms: defense. Example: "Sanitation is the best defense against disease."

(noun) the act of defending someone or something against attack or injury. Synonyms: defense. Examples: "A good boxer needs a good defense." "Defense against hurricanes is an urgent problem."