defense mechanism

noun

: a process in the brain that makes you forget or ignore painful or disturbing thoughts, situations, etc.

: a reaction in your body that protects against disease or danger

Full Definition of DEFENSE MECHANISM

: an often unconscious mental process (as repression) that makes possible compromise solutions to personal problems

: a defensive reaction by an organism

See defense mechanism defined for English-language learners

1913

Medical Dictionary

noun

: an often unconscious mental process (as repression, projection, or sublimation) that makes possible compromise solutions to personal problems

: a defensive reaction by an organism

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