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defense mechanism
noun
1
: an often unconscious mental process (such as repression) that makes possible compromise solutions to personal problems
2
: a defensive reaction by an organism
Examples of defense mechanism in a Sentence
She is projecting her anger on you as a defense mechanism.
the cell's normal defense mechanisms against infection
Recent Examples on the Web
And some strains of the virus appear to have developed defense mechanisms against the interferon response, blunting its effect.
—Saima S. Iqbal, Scientific American, 3 July 2024
Many of those parasites are transmitted via insects, so natural selection will tend to favor defense mechanisms that ward off the pests.
—Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 19 July 2024
Its venom, delivered through grooved teeth, serves both as a defense mechanism and as a means to subdue prey.
—Scott Travers, Forbes, 14 Sep. 2024
Wasps sting primarily as a defense mechanism and several factors can trigger this response.
—Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 16 Aug. 2024
See all Example Sentences for defense mechanism
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'defense mechanism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of defense mechanism was
in 1909
Dictionary Entries Near defense mechanism
Cite this Entry
“Defense mechanism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defense%20mechanism. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.
Medical Definition
defense mechanism
noun1
: an often unconscious mental process (as repression, projection, or sublimation) that makes possible compromise solutions to personal problems
2
: a defensive reaction by an organism
More from Merriam-Webster on defense mechanism
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about defense mechanism
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