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
Our bodies will release more cortisol as a defense mechanism.
—
Audrey Noble, Vogue, 25 June 2025
Scientists say the bees' temperament is a defense mechanism to ward off predators.
—Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 24 June 2025
This inflated sense of self serves as a defense mechanism: a buffer against any and all feelings of shame, powerlessness or worthlessness.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
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
See All Example Sentences for defense mechanism
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Audrey Noble, Vogue, 25 June 2025
Scientists say the bees' temperament is a defense mechanism to ward off predators.
—Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 24 June 2025
This inflated sense of self serves as a defense mechanism: a buffer against any and all feelings of shame, powerlessness or worthlessness.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
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
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 4 Jul. 2025.
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