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

The Avalanche questioned the call, claiming Kings defender Drew Doughty had pushed Drury from behind, but they lost the challenge.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

But ex-England defender Anita Asante said Hampton's ability gives the team "confidence" in these big World Cup qualifiers.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

“He’s a big, tall guy, but I see him most of the time smiling and laughing,” defender Duje Caleta-Car says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

"He has been absolutely magnificent," former England and Arsenal defender Martin Keown told Final Score.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

He dribbled between his legs, passed behind his back, and moved side to side so quickly that the defender would slip.

From "Millionaires for the Month" by Stacey McAnulty

Related Words

• protector
• sponsor
• supporter