self-defense

[self-di-fens, self-] / ˈsɛlf dɪˈfɛns, ˌsɛlf- /

NOUN

protection

Synonyms

STRONGEST

conservation insurance preservation safeguard safety security shelter stability

STRONG

aegis armament armor assurance barrier buffer bulwark camouflage certainty charge cover custody defense fix guard invulnerability reassurance refuge safekeeping salvation screen shield strength surety tutelage umbrella ward

WEAK

guarding protecting wardship

Antonyms

STRONGEST

danger destruction insecurity

STRONG

doubt uncertainty

WEAK

attack harm hurt injury threat

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.

The American military described the attacks as “additional self-defense strikes” in response to Iran’s “unwarranted and continued aggression,” marking the latest exchange of strikes between the two sides this week.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

The logic deployed against Kelver is ultimately about much more than her individual claim to “keep and bear” arms for her self-defense.

From Slate • Jun. 4, 2026

Palacios’ attorney has said he acted in self-defense.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

"US forces conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces," Tim Hawkins, a US Central Command spokesman, said in a statement.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

I feel the wall of her self-defense begin to crumble.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein

self-defense

Example Sentences

Related Words