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Definition defence in British English

defence noun

noun
/dɪˈfens/
1

actions that you take to protect someone or something that is being attacked

Example

Two of his friends came to his defence.

Synonyms and related words
protection sanctuary safekeeping
1.1

the system of weapons, equipment, and people that is used to protect a country

Example

Huge amounts of government money are spent on defence.

Example

an attempt to reduce the defence budget

Example

The President has promised to increase defence spending.

Example

More defence cuts are expected next year.

Synonyms and related words
ammo ammunition armaments
1.2

the particular structures, weapons, and people that are used for protecting a place

Example

Government forces have breached the rebels' defences.

Example

The city walls were built as a defence against invaders.

Example

He stressed the need to strengthen the nation's defences.

Example

New flood defences are being built along the river bank.

Synonyms and related words
ammo ammunition armaments
2

something that you say to support someone or something that is being criticized

Example

The Minister responded with a strong defence of the government's policy.

Example

Several people spoke in my defence.

Example

Monroe has been fierce in defence of the present system.

Example

Martin immediately sprang to her defence, saying she was innocent.

Synonyms and related words
support championship backing
2.1

all the things that are said and shown in a court case to prove that someone is not guilty. The things that are said and shown to prove that someone is guilty are called the prosecution

Example

She decided to conduct her own defence.

Example

He mounted a surprisingly effective defence.

Synonyms and related words
appearance be on/under oath case
2.2

the people in a court case who try to prove that someone is not guilty. The people who try to prove that someone is guilty are called the prosecution. The defence can be followed by a singular or plural verb

Example

The defence will begin giving evidence tomorrow.

Synonyms and related words
advocate AG ambulance chaser
3

something that happens in your body to prevent you from becoming ill

Example

new drugs that work by strengthening the body's own defences

Synonyms and related words
antibody biosecurity candida
4

the players in a team game who try to prevent the other team from scoring points

Example

France has a very strong defence.

Example

I usually play in defence.

Synonyms and related words
all-American A. N. Other back
5

an attempt by someone to win a competition that they won last time so that they keep their position as winner

Example

Simpson is in New York this week for the defence of his title.

Synonyms and related words
play race meet
6

a way of thinking or behaving that protects you from being tricked or hurt

Example

He got me to sign the contract when my defences were down.

Synonyms and related words
catharsis complex conditioning
Definition defence in British English