defender
word · lemma: defend
Definition
A defender is a person or thing that protects or supports something or someone. In sports like soccer, a defender is a player whose main job is to stop the opposing team from scoring.
Usage & Nuances
'Defender' is most often used in sports (especially soccer/football) to mean a defensive player, but also means anyone who protects or supports something, like a legal defender. Do not confuse with 'defendant' (the accused in court). In sports, 'defender' does not refer to a specific position like 'left-back' or 'center-back', but the general defensive role.
Example Sentences
Our team needs another defender.
basic
He’s the best defender we’ve had in years.
natural
As a lawyer, she became a passionate defender of free speech.
natural
Whenever someone is treated unfairly, he jumps in as their defender.
natural
The defender blocked the shot.
basic
He is a strong defender of animal rights.
basic