self-defense
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.
Pancho’s brother called up the leaders of the self-defense milita, and soon 200 men were combing the hills by flashlight.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 6, 2026
Having sworn never to be taken back to slavery alive—or to let that happen to anyone else—he had organized an armed self-defense force of black neighbors to fend off slave catchers.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 2, 2026
In Byrd and Roberts’ case, the state insists it arose in seconds, during the same chaotic burst of gunfire that even the judge agrees began as lawful self-defense.
From Slate ● Aug. 11, 2026
Teyana Taylor, ordinarily a gift to any movie, seems less than committed to the role of Joe’s doctor fiancée, though that may be self-defense.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 24, 2026
I shouted in self-defense and pointed an accusing finger at him.
From "Bless Me, Ultima" by Rudolfo Anaya
