American Dictionary

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Definition self-defense in American English

self-defense noun

[uncountable] noun
1

actions that you take or force that you use in order to protect yourself

Example

Margaret claims she was acting in self-defense when she shot him.

Synonyms and related words
2

fighting skills that you can use to defend yourself from a physical attack

Example

self-defense classes

Synonyms and related words
Definition self-defense in American English