self-defence

British  

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

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Other Word Forms

• self-defensive adjective

Example Sentences

Williams' account of "self-defence" simply couldn't be true.

From BBC • Feb. 28, 2026

Greek President Constantinos Tassoulas said the frigate had "extraordinary" capabilities in surface operations, anti-aircraft, anti-submarine, electronic warfare, and self-defence.

From Barron's • Jan. 15, 2026

US Vice-President JD Vance shared the clip on social media, commenting that the agent had acted in self-defence.

From BBC • Jan. 9, 2026

It allows for "self-defence if an armed attack occurs" but that threat must be imminent, Prof Moffett said.

From BBC • Jan. 5, 2026

The pride and delicacy of the marquise had always shrunk from upbraiding Clovis with ingratitude, or of using her wealth as a weapon of self-defence.

From The Maid of Honour, Volume 2 (of 3) A Tale of the Dark Days of France by Wingfield, Lewis