DEFEND

[verb] [T] - to protect against attack or criticismHow can we defend our homeland if we don't have an army?I'm going to karate lessons to learn how to defend myself.White blood cells help defend the body against infection.They are fighting to defend their beliefs/interests/rights.He staunchly/stoutly/vigorously defended his point of view.The Bank of England intervened this morning to defend the pound (= stop it from losing value).The Prime Minister was asked how he could defend (= explain his support for) a policy that increased unemployment.I can't afford a lawyer so I shall defend myself (= argue my own case in a law court).He will be defending (= trying not to lose) his title at the European Championships next week.Compare attack.To defend in a sporting event is to try to prevent the opposing player or players from scoring points, goals, etc..The team we were playing against in the match defended badly and we scored easily.The defending champion will play her first match of the tournament tomorrow.