Definition of: defend

(di·fend′) v.t.
1. To shield from attack or injury; protect.
2. To justify or vindicate; support.
3. Law a To act in behalf of (an accused). b To contest, as a claim, charge, or suit.
4. Obs. To forbid.
—v.i.
5. To make a defense. See synonyms under JUSTIFY, KEEP, PRESERVE, SHELTER [<L defendere <de- down, away + fendere strike]
—de·fend′a·ble adjective