defending
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for defending, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The act of protecting or arguing in support of someone or something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Frequently asked questions
What does “defending” mean?
The word “defending” means the act of protecting or arguing in support of someone or something.
How do you pronounce “defending”?
“Defending” is pronounced duh-FEHN-dihng (/dəˈfɛndɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “defending” in a sentence?
Here is “defending” used in a sentence: “His constant defending of the policy annoyed his critics.”
What part of speech is “defending”?
“Defending” is a noun.
Is “defending” a common word?
“Defending” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "defending" and "attacking"?
"Defending" is the act of protecting someone or something or arguing in their support, while "attacking" is the act of assaulting or criticising them. In sport, the defending side tries to stop the attacking side from scoring.
What is the difference between "defending" and "protecting"?
Both involve keeping someone or something safe, but "defending" often implies responding to an attack, accusation, or challenge, including by arguing in support. "Protecting" is broader and can mean guarding against any kind of harm, whether or not an attack is under way.