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
Coughing is the lungs' only defense mechanism, said Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos, a volunteer medical spokesperson with the American Lung Association (ALA).
—
Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 June 2025
This may be a defense mechanism to protect our relationship and self-image.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
This signals plant cells to activate a variety of defense mechanisms.
—Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 19 Mar. 2025
Infidelity, in this case, becomes an unconscious defense mechanism—a way to reaffirm their internal belief that relationships always end in pain.
—Mark Travers, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for defense mechanism
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Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 June 2025
This may be a defense mechanism to protect our relationship and self-image.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
This signals plant cells to activate a variety of defense mechanisms.
—Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 19 Mar. 2025
Infidelity, in this case, becomes an unconscious defense mechanism—a way to reaffirm their internal belief that relationships always end in pain.
—Mark Travers, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for defense mechanism
Cite this Entry
“Defense mechanism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defense%20mechanism. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.
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