defence mechanism

British  

noun

1. psychoanal a usually unconscious mental process designed to reduce the anxiety, shame, etc, associated with instinctive desires

2. physiol the protective response of the body against disease organisms

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Example Sentences

The "highly distinctive, prominent horns" are only on the female bee and may be used as a defence mechanism, to gather pollen or nectar, or to collect materials such as resin for nests.

From BBC

This kind of constant self-editing, Ms Kean explains, may act as a defence mechanism to avoid being seen as abrasive or overly assertive.

From BBC

Experts have since debated whether Stockholm syndrome is an actual psychiatric condition, with some arguing it is a defence mechanism to cope with traumatic situations.

From BBC

"The defence mechanisms you put in are absolutely critical."

From BBC

Humour can be a highly adapted defence mechanism, she says, which can make comedians more opaque than other contestants.

From BBC