defence
noun
[ dɪˈfɛns ]
• the action of defending from or resisting attack.
• "methods of defence against this kind of attack"
Similar:
protection,
shielding,
safeguarding,
guarding,
security,
fortification,
cover,
shelter,
screen,
resistance,
deterrent,
vindication,
justification,
support,
advocacy,
approval,
endorsement,
promotion,
apology,
apologia,
explanation,
explication,
excuse,
extenuation,
exoneration,
palliation,
• the case presented by or on behalf of the party accused of a crime or being sued in a civil lawsuit.
• "the farmer's defence was that he intended only to wound the thief"
Similar:
rebuttal,
denial,
vindication,
explanation,
mitigation,
justification,
rationalization,
excuse,
alibi,
reason,
plea,
pleading,
testimony,
declaration,
case,
• (in sport) the action or role of defending one's goal or wicket against the opposition.
• "Wolves were pressed back into defence"
Origin:
Middle English: from Old French defens, from late Latin defensum (neuter), defensa (feminine), past participles of defendere ‘defend’.
