defender

[dih-fen-der]

noun

1. a person who defends someone or something from attack, assault, or injury.

   We commemorate the brave defenders of this fort.

2. Law.,  an attorney for a defendant, especially a public defender.

   the systemwide benefits of effective defenders.

3. a person who supports an argument, theory, thesis, etc., in the face of criticism or challenging questions.

   defenders of gay rights.

4. Sports.

   1. a team player whose assigned role is to prevent the other team from scoring.

      On the court, he’s an exceptional defender and a natural leader.

   2. a contestant or team that attempts to retain a championship title, rank, etc., in a competition against a challenger.

      Her main rival is the young title defender from Italy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of defender¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English; defend ( def. ) + -er ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Former Liverpool and Bradford City defender Stephen Darby was also diagnosed with the condition aged just 29.

From BBC

"The feeling just now is complete disappointment and frustration," said defender Jenna Clark afterwards.

From BBC

Despite losing two more central defenders to injury on Saturday and missing star attacker Cole Palmer, Chelsea found a way to win - with Estevao delivering the decisive moment.

From BBC

"A lot of these comedians have been huge defenders of free speech, and to go and perform in Saudi Arabia, where free speech is so heavily curtailed, is extraordinary. It's morally repugnant."

From BBC

For six minutes he had three defenders on the pitch instead of four.

From BBC

Related Words

• protector 
• sponsor 
• supporter