Synonyms for

Defends

Verb / dɪˈfendz / Another word for defends — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to protect or guard from attack

Synonyms & similar words

guard fightback support fendfor champion oppose hold maintain attack represent prosecute fight fightdown defend protects guards shields safeguards upholds preserves champions supports secures covers maintains averts repels resists opposes contests challenges argues debates

Synonyms by register

Formal

protects safeguards vindicates justifies

Informal

backs supports covers holds the line

Literary

shields wards fends

Antonyms

attacks assaults invades offends challenges assails strikes

Common collocations

  • defends the realm
  • defends the title
  • defends the innocent
  • defends the country
  • defends the faith
  • defends his position
  • defends himself

Word family

noun defense
verb defend
adjective defensive
adverb defensively

Usage note

The verb 'defends' is often used in contexts of protection, justification, or argument. It can imply actively resisting an attack or asserting the validity of something.

Example sentences

  1. She defends her family from danger.
  2. The goalkeeper defends the goal from the opposing team.
  3. The lawyer defends his client in court.
  4. Soldiers defend their country from enemies.
  5. The antivirus software defends the computer from viruses.

Quotes

  • The best defense is a good offense.
  • He who defends everything defends nothing.
  • Never defend yourself against a critic; it will just make him attack you more.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words