Dictionary
self–defense
noun self–de·fense \ˌself-di-ˈfen(t)s\
: the act of defending yourself, your property, etc.
: skills that make you capable of protecting yourself during an attack
Full Definition of SELF-DEFENSE
1
: a plea of justification for the use of force or for homicide
2
: the act of defending oneself, one's property, or a close relative
See self–defense defined for English-language learners
See self-defense defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of SELF-DEFENSE
1651
Rhymes with SELF-DEFENSE
SELF-DEFENSE Defined for Kids
self–defense
noun self–de·fense \ˌself-di-ˈfens\
Definition of SELF-DEFENSE for Kids
: someone's act of defending himself or herself or his or her property <I acted in self-defense.>
Learn More About SELF-DEFENSE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: self–defensivePrevious Word in the Dictionary: self–dedicationAll Words Near: self-defense
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up self-defense? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).