self-defence

noun

1. the act of defending oneself, one's actions, ideas, etc

2. boxing as a means of defending the person (esp in the phrase noble art of self-defence )

3. law the right to defend one's person, family, or property against attack or threat of attack by the use of no more force than is reasonable

Other Word Forms

• self-defensive adjective

Example Sentences

Mr Kovalik does not buy the US's self-defence argument, saying "these boats have never attacked the United States".

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It is legal to own a firearm in South Africa for self-defence if a person has a valid licence.

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The judge delivered a passionate speech, arguing that no Ukrainian could be prosecuted for what he characterised as a legitimate act of self-defence against Russia's "bloody and genocidal" invasion of Ukraine.

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In such a situation, Japan's self-defence forces can be called upon to respond to the threat.

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Addressing parliament on November 7, Takaichi said that an armed attack on Taiwan could warrant sending troops to the island under "collective self-defence".

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