defend

• Verbo usado para indicar a ação de proteger alguém ou algo de ataque, dano ou crítica, ou de argumentar em apoio a uma posição.

A verb used to indicate the act of protecting someone or something from attack, harm, or criticism, or to argue in support of a position.

1. Protect from harmB1formal

   To protect someone or something from attack, danger, or injury.

   Defender

   • The soldiers defended the city from the enemy.
   • She defended her friend against the bullies.
   • The dog defended its owner from the intruder.

   Sinônimosguardpreserveprotectsafeguardsecuresheltershield

   Antônimosassailassaultattackendangerimperiljeopardize

2. Support an argumentB2formal

   To argue in support of something, especially when it is being criticized.

   Defender

   • The lawyer defended her client in court.
   • He defended his decision to the board of directors.
   • She defended her thesis with strong evidence.

   Sinônimosadvocatebackchampionjustifysubstantiatesupportupholdvindicate

   Antônimosassailattackcriticize

3. Sports: prevent scoringB1informal

   In sports, to try to prevent the opposing team from scoring.

   Defender

   • The team defended well throughout the match.
   • He defended the goal with a spectacular save.
   • They defended their title successfully in the championship.

   Sinônimosblockcoverguardmarkprotectrepelresist