How Do You Spell DEFENSE?

Pronunciation: [dɪfˈɛns] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "defense" is often a point of confusion for many English language learners. The word is actually spelled with a "c" in British English, such as in the popular phrase "defence against the dark arts." However, in American English, the word is spelled with an "s" as in "defense attorney." The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription of defense is /dɪˈfɛns/, which helps to break down the pronunciation of each sound in the word, regardless of the spelling difference between variations of English.

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
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DEFENSE Meaning and Definition

  1. Defense is a noun that encompasses various meanings and usage, primarily involving the act or method of protecting oneself or something from harm, danger, or attack. It refers to the action taken to prevent damage, loss, or injury by warding off or repelling an offensive force or threat. Defense can take on different forms depending on the context, such as physical, military, legal, or psychological.

    In a physical sense, defense relates to safeguarding the body or physical space against assaults, including self-defense techniques used to counteract aggression. In a military context, defense refers to the strategic measures taken to protect a nation's security, territory, or interests against external threats. It encompasses fortifications, weaponry, counterattacks, and strategies employed to thwart or resist an opposing force.

    Defense also has legal connotations, referring to the act of presenting evidence, arguments, or testimonies aimed at proving innocence or minimizing culpability in a legal dispute or criminal accusation. It involves legal representation, adherence to established laws, rules, and regulations, and the utilization of various legal strategies to ensure a fair trial.

    Furthermore, defense can pertain to psychological shields used by individuals to protect their emotional well-being or self-esteem. For instance, someone may adopt defense mechanisms like denial, repression, or rationalization in order to cope with stressful or traumatic situations.

    Overall, defense encompasses the broad spectrum of actions and measures taken to preserve, safeguard, or shield something from potential harm, be it physical, military, legal, or psychological in nature.

Top Common Misspellings for DEFENSE *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for DEFENSE

Etymology of DEFENSE

The word "defense" has its origins in Middle English from the Latin word "defensa", which is the feminine form of "defensus", the past participle of the verb "defendere". "Defendere" is a combination of the prefix "de", meaning "down" or "off", and the verb "fendere", which means "to strike" or "to ward off". The Latin word "defensa" originally referred to the act or action of defending or protecting oneself or something/someone else from harm or danger. Over time, this term evolved into the Modern English word "defense", retaining its original meaning.

Idioms with the word DEFENSE

  • on defense The idiom "on defense" typically refers to a situation where someone or a group of people are actively trying to protect themselves, their interests, or their possessions from potential threats or attacks. It can also imply the act of being cautious or vigilant in anticipation of possible risks or dangers.
  • Nuremberg defense The idiom "Nuremberg defense" refers to a legal defense strategy in which an individual claims that they were merely following orders or instructions from a higher authority, and therefore should not be held responsible for their actions. This defense is often used to evade culpability for participating in morally or ethically questionable actions or human rights abuses, highlighting the importance of individual accountability and moral judgement. The term originated from the trials held in Nuremberg, Germany after World War II, where several high-ranking Nazi officials employed this defense but were nonetheless found guilty for their role in war crimes and crimes against humanity.
  • spring to sm's defense The idiom "spring to someone's defense" means to take immediate and vigorous action to support or protect someone who is being attacked, criticized or threatened, often in a verbal or active manner. It implies coming to their aid or standing up for their rights or innocence.
  • best defense is a good offense The idiom "the best defense is a good offense" means that the most effective way to protect oneself or achieve success is to be proactive and take aggressive action, rather than simply reacting defensively to a situation. It suggests that by attacking or counterattacking, one can keep the opponent off balance and prevent them from launching their own offensive moves. In essence, it implies that a strong offense can act as a form of defense.
  • attack is the best form of defense The idiom "attack is the best form of defense" suggests that being proactive and taking action against a potential threat or challenge is the most effective way to protect oneself or achieve success, rather than simply defending or reacting passively. It implies that a preemptive strike or proactive approach can weaken the opposition and prevent them from attacking or gaining an advantage.
  • spring to someone's defense "Spring to someone's defense" is an idiom that means to come forward and support or protect someone who is being criticized, attacked, or unfairly treated. It involves responding quickly and vigorously to defend the person, often in order to counter any negative or harmful actions or opinions directed towards them.
  • the best defense is a good offense The idiom "the best defense is a good offense" means that it is more effective to take proactive measures or launch preemptive actions to protect oneself, rather than merely reacting or defending against potential threats or attacks. It suggests that being assertive, attacking, or confronting a situation can be more advantageous in avoiding or neutralizing the need for defensive measures.

Similar spelling words for DEFENSE

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Correct spelling for defense
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