defence
UK[dɪˈfɛns]US[dɪˈfɛns]
n
The action of protecting someone or something from attack, danger, or criticism.
n
The case presented by or on behalf of the party being accused or sued in a lawsuit.
n
(in sports) the players or actions whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
fence
de
away, off
fence
strike, hit
Etymology
The word 'defence' originates from the Latin verb defendere, meaning "to ward off, protect." This verb itself is a compound of the prefix de- (meaning "away, off") and the root -fendere (a variant of -fendere, "to strike, hit"). The literal sense is thus "to strike away" a threat. It entered Middle English via Old French defens, carrying the core concept of protection by repelling an attack. Over time, its application broadened from physical protection to include legal argumentation (warding off accusations) and strategic roles in sports.
Analysis
Structure: de (away, off) + fence (strike, hit)
de: A Latin prefix meaning "away, off, down, reversal."
fence: From Latin fendere (to strike, hit), a variant of defendere. In English, it functions as a bound root meaning "to ward off."
Examples
The castle's strong walls provided an excellent defence against invaders.
The lawyer presented a compelling defence for her client.
The team's defence was so strong that the opponents didn't score a single goal.