Showing results for defense mechanism. Search instead for transfermechanismen.

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.

A stingray’s defense mechanism is to camouflage itself on top of the ocean floor’s sand or buried under it.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 1, 2025

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

"There is no other vegetable with a defense mechanism that if you attack it, it will spit sulfuric acid in your eyes."

From Salon • Mar. 11, 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