Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/dɪˈfɛns/

Definitions

• 1. The action of defending from or resisting attack.
• 2. The military forces or operations involved in defending a country, territory, or asset.
• 3. The argument or evidence presented in support of a position in a legal case.
• 4. The protection or safeguarding of someone or something from harm or danger.

Usage Examples

• "The defence of the castle was crucial during the war." (Noun)
• "The lawyer presented a strong defence in the courtroom." (Noun)
• "She worked in the company’s defence department." (Noun)

Etymology

From Old French "defens," from Latin "defensa" (meaning "a defending"). The root of the word stems from "defendere" meaning "to ward off, protect." The term has been in use since the 14th century in various forms, gradually broadening to include both legal and military contexts.

Synonyms

• Protection
• Guarding
• Defense
• Safeguarding
• Shielding

Antonyms

• Attack
• Offense
• Invasion
• Assault
• Offensiveness

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation of the word "defence" can vary depending on the region. In British English, it is commonly pronounced as /dɪˈfɛns/, whereas in American English, it may sound slightly different with more emphasis on the first syllable. In countries like Australia and Canada, the pronunciation closely mirrors the British version, but accents may still cause slight variations.

Historical Usage

The word "defence" has been used since the Middle Ages, initially with a military connotation, meaning the protection of a city or territory from invaders. Over time, it extended into legal and other protective contexts. The earliest recorded usage dates back to the 14th century, especially in military writings and then into more widespread use in the 16th century to describe various forms of protection and resistance.

Cultural Nuances

The term "defence" is not only related to military activities but also to legal and social contexts in various cultures. In many countries, the notion of defence can extend into cultural pride and identity, where defending one's nation or community is seen as a fundamental duty. In legal terms, "defence" represents the strategy or argument made to protect the rights or freedoms of an individual accused of wrongdoing.

More Information

In modern society, the concept of defence has expanded beyond just military contexts. It now includes legal, cyber, and even intellectual defences in various fields. The shift towards broader interpretations has influenced national security policies, international relations, and personal protection laws. The importance of defence, whether in physical, legal, or digital form, continues to grow as global dynamics evolve.