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Showing results for defense mechanism. Search instead for tunnelmechanismen.
Definitions

defense mechanism

NOUN
protective activity
Synonyms
WEAK
conversion defense defense reaction repression sublimation suppression symbolization

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.

Inflammation is an essential defense mechanism that protects us from infection and injury.

From Science Daily • Feb. 19, 2026

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

From Slate • May 30, 2025

Scientists believe that algae use bioluminescence as a defense mechanism — to scare off hungry sea creatures or call attention to their location, which draws the predators’ predators.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 30, 2024

“I’m ready to take care of business, as a defense mechanism, because it’s gotten to the point where you have to take some responsibility for your own safety.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 9, 2024

We had created this idea of ourselves as a defense mechanism to survive in the world we were living in.

From "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood" by Trevor Noah