offense
offense Lexical Profile
offense Game Scores & Validity
• noun
American A breach of a law, rule, or code of conduct; an illegal or punishable act.
"Driving without a valid license is a serious traffic offense that carries a hefty fine."
American Annoyance, resentment, or wounded feelings brought about by a perceived insult, slight, or disregard.
"She meant no offense by her candid remark about the project's timeline."
American The attacking team or players in a game or sport, or the method and style of attacking to score points.
"The basketball team's fast-paced offense scored over a hundred points in the championship game."
American The action of attacking someone or something aggressively rather than defending.
"In competitive negotiations, a proactive strategy often proves that the best defense is a good offense."
Word Nuance & Usage
Spelled 'offense' in American English and 'offence' in British and Commonwealth English, though the British sports media occasionally uses 'offense' when referring specifically to North American sports teams.
• Rhymes for offense
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'ofense', from Latin 'offensa' (a striking against, an injury, or displeasure), derived from 'offendere' (to strike against, stumble, or displease).