'defender' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'defendre,' where 'de-' meant 'away' and 'fendre' meant 'to strike.'

'defendre' transformed into the Middle English word 'defenden,' and eventually became the modern English word 'defender.'

Initially, it meant 'to ward off or protect,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'one who protects or supports.'