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
The phenomenon is driven by atomic vibrations that act as a microscopic defense mechanism.
—
Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 16 Feb. 2026
The memes, the trolling, and the Epstein video slop are all a cultural defense mechanism amid a crisis of impunity.
—Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 14 Feb. 2026
Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism—but chronic uncontrolled inflammation can be harmful and worsen disease, Klein explains.
—Lauren J. Young, Scientific American, 9 Feb. 2026
The startle response is a largely unconscious defense mechanism and a sudden switch in brain state, found throughout the animal kingdom.
—Ingrid Wickelgren, Quanta Magazine, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for defense mechanism
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Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 16 Feb. 2026
The memes, the trolling, and the Epstein video slop are all a cultural defense mechanism amid a crisis of impunity.
—Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 14 Feb. 2026
Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism—but chronic uncontrolled inflammation can be harmful and worsen disease, Klein explains.
—Lauren J. Young, Scientific American, 9 Feb. 2026
The startle response is a largely unconscious defense mechanism and a sudden switch in brain state, found throughout the animal kingdom.
—Ingrid Wickelgren, Quanta Magazine, 30 Jan. 2026
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 23 Feb. 2026.
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