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

When Harry Maguire signed a new Manchester United contract this month, the experienced England defender removed himself from the list of this summer's potential free agents.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

After Saturday's home defeat by Manchester United, footage went viral on social media of defender Wesley Fofana appearing to ignore attempts by first-team coach Justin Walker, one of Rosenior's assistants, to speak to him.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

The Argentina defender had briefly grasped the ponytail of striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and was shown a red card after referee Paul Tierney was sent to the screen.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

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

The defender countered that Zeitoun had no prior record, and that the bail should be far lower.

From "Zeitoun" by Dave Eggers

Related Words

• protector
• sponsor
• supporter