in defense of (something or someone)
idiom
variants
or in something's or someone's defense
1
: in order to keep (something) safe that is being physically attacked
They fought in defense of their country.
2
: in support of (someone or something) that is being verbally attacked or criticized
She spoke out in defense of justice.
Let me say, in her defense, that I would have done the same thing that she did.
He spoke up in his own defense.
Examples of in defense of (something or someone) in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Like so many Ukrainians, Leontyev has become a citizen soldier in defense of his country, training members of his military unit in the proper use of weapons.
—
Matthew Carey, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2025
As for the Democrats, their marching in defense of a regime change tool that Trump's base is giddy to destroy is extraordinary, but unsurprising.
—Dan Perry, Newsweek, 13 Feb. 2025
Some have come out in defense of it, saying the airlines have pushed travelers to extreme measures by making economy-class seats too small and uncomfortable.
—Karla Cripps, CNN, 12 Feb. 2025
The question is: What are universities prepared to risk in defense of their most essential values?
—Jamie Kalven, Chicago Tribune, 2 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for in defense of (something or someone)
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Matthew Carey, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2025
As for the Democrats, their marching in defense of a regime change tool that Trump's base is giddy to destroy is extraordinary, but unsurprising.
—Dan Perry, Newsweek, 13 Feb. 2025
Some have come out in defense of it, saying the airlines have pushed travelers to extreme measures by making economy-class seats too small and uncomfortable.
—Karla Cripps, CNN, 12 Feb. 2025
The question is: What are universities prepared to risk in defense of their most essential values?
—Jamie Kalven, Chicago Tribune, 2 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for in defense of (something or someone)
Cite this Entry
“In defense of (something or someone).” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20defense%20of%20%28something%20or%20someone%29. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.
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