Defender

Definition

Defender refers to a person or entity that protects, supports, or upholds something or someone. It is commonly used in legal, military, and sports contexts to describe individuals who safeguard rights, people, or positions.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈfɛndər/
• Respelling: dih-FEN-der

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈfɛndə/
• Respelling: dih-FEN-duh

The pronunciation of "defender" differs slightly between American and British English, particularly in the final syllable.

Etymology

The word "defender" originates from the Old French word "defendre," which means "to protect or defend," derived from the Latin word "defendere," meaning "to ward off" or "to protect." It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages.

Derivatives

• Defend (verb)
• Defensive (adjective)
• Defended (verb)
• Defenderless (adjective)
• Defendable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Protector
• Guardian
• Advocate

Antonyms

• Attacker
• Opponent
• Critic

Usage

The term "defender" is widely used in various contexts, including law, sports, and military. In legal contexts, it refers to someone who defends the rights of others, such as a public defender. In sports, a defender is a player responsible for preventing the opposing team from scoring, particularly in soccer, basketball, and hockey. In military contexts, it describes someone or something that protects a territory or position from attack.

Related Terms

• Advocate: A person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy.
• Protector: Someone or something that defends or shields from harm or danger.
• Defensive: Designed or intended to defend or protect.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who protects or defends someone or something: Refers to an individual who safeguards or upholds the safety, rights, or well-being of another.
  • Example: "He became a strong defender of civil rights."
• A player in a sport responsible for preventing the opposing team from scoring: Commonly used in team sports to describe a position that focuses on defending.
  • Example: "The defender made a crucial save to prevent the goal."
• A person or group that defends a place, position, or country in battle: Refers to military personnel or forces that protect a territory or fortification from enemies.
  • Example: "The city's defenders fought bravely to repel the invaders."