defending
UK: dɪˈfɛndɪŋ | US: dɪˈfɛndɪŋ
vt. 1. Protecting someone or something from harm, criticism, or attack.
vt. 2. Justifying or upholding a position, idea, or right through argument or evidence.
vi. 3. Competing to retain a title or position in sports or other contests.
The word "defending" originates from the Latin defendere, meaning "to ward off, protect." It combines de- (away, off) and fendere (to strike, hit), reflecting the act of pushing back against threats. The suffix -ing marks its present participle form in English, indicating ongoing action. Over time, its meaning expanded from physical protection to include abstract defense (e.g., arguments or rights).
The lawyer is defending her client in court.
Soldiers were defending the border from invasion.
She wrote an article defending free speech.
The champion is defending his title in the upcoming match.
Bees sting when defending their hive.