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Showing results for self-defense. Search instead for solnhofens.
Definitions

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.

Vescovi told Moss the killing looked like self-defense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

This includes Massachusetts, where courts consider factors such as the characteristics of any weapon used when evaluating whether a self-defense shooting was proportional.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

The agents involved in the shootings have not spoken publicly, but a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security defended Good’s shooting, saying the agent acted in self-defense.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

But self-defense is far from being embraced as a collective civic duty in Taiwan.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

The salad master raised a frying pan in self-defense.

From "The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm" by Nancy Farmer