defence

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Alternative spellings 1.2 Pronunciation 1.3 Noun 1.3.1 Derived terms 1.3.2 Translations

[edit] English

[edit] Alternative spellings

• defense (US)

[edit] Pronunciation

• (RP) IPA: /dɛˈfɛns/
• (US) IPA: /ˈdifɛns/
•  Audio (US)^{help, file}

• Rhymes: -ɛns

[edit] Noun

defence (plural defences)

1. The action of protecting from attack.
2. Something used to oppose attack.
   • 1592—1609, William Shakespeare, Sonnet XII:

     And nothing 'gainst Time's scythe can make defence

     Save breed, to brave him when he takes thee hence.

3. An argument in support or justification of something.
   • 1592—1609, William Shakespeare, Sonnet LXXXIX:

     Speak of my lameness, and I straight will halt,

     Against thy reasons making no defence.

[edit] Derived terms

• Nuremberg defence

[edit] Translations