self-defense
|self/de/fense|
/ˌsɛlf dɪˈfɛns/
protection of oneself
Etymology
'self-defense' originates from the combination of 'self' and 'defense', where 'self' refers to one's own person and 'defense' means protection against attack.
'self-defense' has been used in English since the 17th century to describe the act of protecting oneself.
Initially, it meant 'protection of oneself', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act of defending oneself, one's property, or a close relative.
She took a self-defense class to learn how to protect herself.
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Noun 2
a legal defense claiming that the use of force was necessary to protect oneself.
He claimed self-defense in court after the altercation.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42