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

Djiga contrived to head the ball into Martinez's path under no pressure to gift Braga a point, the defender appearing to lose the flight of the ball in swirling conditions.

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Looking ahead to January, Liverpool are interested in reviving their move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi after missing out on the final day of the summer transfer window.

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Liverpool are "not a sacking club", according to former defender Jamie Carragher - but how much time will Slot be given to turn things around?

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And former defender Upson thinks that the options Arsenal have are a big reason why Arteta is able to keep the standards so high.

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The 28-year-old defender admits he has plenty of work to do if he is to make the plane for the 2026 World Cup.

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Related Words

• protector 
• sponsor 
• supporter