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.

"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

"Put simply, the self-defense system becomes more resilient. Hormones conducive to tissue repair and regeneration may be released and promote the self-healing system's functioning."

From Science Daily • May 4, 2026

Japan renounced war after its defeat in World War II, though it maintains capable and well-equipped armed forces for self-defense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

The other man armed himself with a hammer in self-defense, police said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

I shouted in self-defense and pointed an accusing finger at him.

From "Bless Me, Ultima" by Rudolfo Anaya

self-defense

Example Sentences

Related Words