defend Synonyms
Another word for defend
• verb (Context 1)
To protect someone or something from harm, danger, or an attack, and to ensure their safety.
"White blood cells work tirelessly to protect the human body against harmful infections."
• verb (Context 2)
To speak or write in support of a person, idea, action, or thesis that is being criticized or examined.
"The doctoral candidate had to justify her dissertation before a committee of five professors."
• verb (Context 3)
To compete in order to retain a championship title or prevent an opponent from scoring in a game or sport.
"The reigning champion will return to the tournament next month to retain her title."
• verb (Context 4)
To act as a legal attorney for an accused party or contest a claim in a court of law.
"The public attorney was appointed by the court to represent the client during the trial."
Opposites of defend
The opposite of defend shifts depending on context. Common opposites include: