defense
UK[dɪˈfens]US[dɪˈfens]
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
fens
e
de
away, off
fens
to strike
e
silent
Etymology
The word 'defense' originates from the Latin verb defendere, meaning "to ward off, protect." This verb is itself a compound of the prefix de- ("away, off") and the root -fendere ("to strike"). The literal sense is thus "to strike away" a threat. The term entered English via Old French defense in the 13th century, carrying the core meaning of protection against attack. Over time, its application broadened from physical protection to include legal argumentation (warding off accusations) and strategic roles in sports, all preserving the fundamental concept of a reactive action against an opposing force.
Analysis
Structure: de (away, off) + fens (to strike) + e (silent)
- de: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "away, off, down, reversal."
- fens: Latin origin, from the verb fendere (to strike, hit), serving as the word's core root.
- e: A silent vowel, often added in English spelling to indicate a long vowel sound or by convention from the Latin source.
Examples
The country invested heavily in its national defense.
The lawyer presented a strong defense for her client.
Their team's defense was impenetrable throughout the championship game.