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

noun
1
: 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

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