defender
|de-fend-er|
🇺🇸
/dɪˈfɛndər/
🇬🇧
/dɪˈfɛndə/
(defend)
protector
Etymology
'defender' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'defendre,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'fendre' meant 'to strike.'
'defendre' transformed into the Middle English word 'defenden,' and eventually became the modern English word 'defend.'
Initially, it meant 'to ward off or protect,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who defends.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who defends someone or something from attack or harm.
The defender blocked the shot to save the goal.
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Noun 2
a player in a sport whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring.
The defender tackled the forward to regain possession.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35