Definitions

self-defense

[self-di-fens, self-] / ˈsɛlf dɪˈfɛns, ˌsɛlf- /

NOUN

protection

Synonyms

STRONGEST

conservation insurance preservation safeguard safety security shelter stability

STRONG

aegis armament armor assurance barrier buffer bulwark camouflage certainty charge cover custody defense fix guard invulnerability reassurance refuge safekeeping salvation screen shield strength surety tutelage umbrella ward

WEAK

guarding protecting wardship

Antonyms

STRONGEST

danger destruction insecurity

STRONG

doubt uncertainty

WEAK

attack harm hurt injury threat

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Cases like Kelver’s expose key contradictions at the heart of our cherished rhetoric of armed self-defense.

From Slate • Jun. 4, 2026

Founding a state brought sovereignty, self-defense and a chance to break from the losing politics of accommodation—“no small things,” Ms. Wisse says.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

The Cuban government said in a statement that the 1996 shootdown was "legitimate self-defense" against an airspace violation.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

"Put simply, the self-defense system becomes more resilient. Hormones conducive to tissue repair and regeneration may be released and promote the self-healing system's functioning."

From Science Daily • May 4, 2026

In one of the asides that probably prepared us for the job better than any of the approved curriculum items, Kirkley said that occasionally officers did have to act in self-defense.

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover

self-defense

Example Sentences

Related Words