{ De*fense", De*fence" } (?), n. [F. défense, OF. defense, fem., defens, masc., fr. L. defensa (cf. LL. defensum), from defendere. See Defend, and cf. Fence.] 1. The act of defending, or the state of being defended; protection, as from violence or danger.

In cases of defense 't is best to weigh
The enemy more mighty than he seems.

2. That which defends or protects; anything employed to oppose attack, ward off violence or danger, or maintain security; a guard; a protection.

War would arise in defense of the right.

God, the widow's champion and defense.

3. Protecting plea; vindication; justification.

Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defense.

4. (Law) The defendant's answer or plea; an opposing or denial of the truth or validity of the plaintiff's or prosecutor's case; the method of proceeding adopted by the defendant to protect himself against the plaintiff's action.

5. Act or skill in making defense; defensive plan or policy; practice in self defense, as in fencing, boxing, etc.

A man of great defense.

By how much defense is better than no skill.

6. Prohibition; a prohibitory ordinance. [Obs.]

Severe defenses . . . against wearing any linen under a certain breadth.

De*fense", v. t. To furnish with defenses; to fortify. [Obs.] [Written also defence.]

Better manned and more strongly defensed.

• The action of defending or protecting from attack, danger, or injury.
  
• Anything employed to oppose attack(s).
  
• An argument in support or justification of something.