defender

American  

[dih-fen-der] / dɪˈfɛn dər /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of defender

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

Example Sentences

He was as industrious as the others, committed defenders and creating shooting opportunities for himself, even if his end product was lacking.

From BBC

If the conventional wisdom was indeed the original meaning, its defenders should be able to identify members of the enacting coalition who said so.

From The Wall Street Journal

"I think as a young league in a country that's developing the sport of football, it's important that we do get that visibility," said Cavalry defender Bradley Kamdem, who played in that frosty final.

From BBC

Following the Carabao Cup final defeat by Manchester City earlier this month, defender William Saliba confirmed he would not be joining up with France because of an ankle injury.

From BBC

"It's another opportunity to earn another cap," former Wales defender James Chester told BBC Wales' Feast of Football.

From BBC

Related Words

• protector
• sponsor
• supporter