I. də̇ˈfendənt, dēˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English defendaunt, from Middle French defendant, present participle of defendre, from Old French
1. obsolete : defender
2. : a person required to make answer in an action or suit in law or equity or in a criminal action — opposed to plaintiff ; see defend 6
II. “, ˈdēˌf- adjective
Etymology: Middle French
1. : defending : being on the defensive
2. obsolete : defensive