defenseman

noun

de·​fense·​man di-ˈfen(t)s-mən How to pronounce defenseman (audio)
-ˌman
: a player in a sport (such as hockey) who is assigned to a defensive zone or position

Examples of defenseman in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The 20-year-old defensemen — a third-round pick in 2023 —- assisted on Brodzinski's second goal. CBS News, 28 Mar. 2026 Ryan, a defenseman by trade, also proved key in helping the Knights control time of possession on the defensive end by logging six ground balls. Clark Fahrenthold, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Mar. 2026 Wild defenseman Jeff Petry, who was playing in his second game since being acquired from Florida at the trade deadline, was welcomed back by the Panthers during a first period TV timeout. Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 27 Mar. 2026 The Ducks lost two defensemen to injury. ABC News, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for defenseman

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of defenseman was in 1877

Cite this Entry

“Defenseman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defenseman. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

defenseman

noun
de·​fense·​man -mən How to pronounce defenseman (audio)
-ˌman
: a player in a sport who is assigned to a defensive zone or position
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