defense mechanism

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.

Experts say rattlesnakes typically don’t bite unless they feel threatened and use their bite as a defense mechanism.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

For Divon, Pallywood is less a conspiracy theory than a psychological defense mechanism.

From Slate • May 30, 2025

It is important to remember that inflammation is a defense mechanism of the body.

From Science Daily • Dec. 4, 2024

My greatest fears began to unfold as I crept back into the only defense mechanism I’ve ever known.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 28, 2024

But then my body took over and this primal defense mechanism, said, No, we will not stand for this.

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy