in defense of (something or someone)

idiom

variants or in something's or someone's defense

1

: in order to keep (something) safe that is being physically attacked

They fought in defense of their country.

2

: in support of (someone or something) that is being verbally attacked or criticized

She spoke out in defense of justice.

Let me say, in her defense, that I would have done the same thing that she did.

He spoke up in his own defense.

Examples of in defense of (something or someone) in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a statement yesterday, Jordan’s government said the interceptions were made to ensure the safety of its citizens, rather than in defense of Israel. —NBC News, 16 Apr. 2024

Drake Bell is speaking out in defense of Josh Peck amid his abuse allegations. —Esther Kang, Peoplemag, 20 Mar. 2024

Halls’ attorney, Lisa Torraco, released a statement at the time in defense of her client. —Christina Maxouris, CNN, 22 Feb. 2024

The film is a tragicomedy following the family of a teenage YouTuber who posts an irreverent video lampooning a megachurch pastor in defense of his gay twin brother. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 15 Mar. 2024

Steven Schwartz of Levidow, Levidow and Oberman filed a brief in defense of his client seeking damages from the Columbian airline that relied on precedents complete with detailed case citations that turned out to be purely fictitious. —Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 23 Feb. 2024

First Lady Jill Biden came out in defense of her and President Joe Biden's son, Hunter, saying the relentless attacks by Congressional Republicans are cruel. —USA TODAY, 11 Jan. 2024

The criticism prompted a rare public statement from Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker in defense of her office’s work, saying an involuntary manslaughter charge was the only available option. —Bill Lukitsch, Kansas City Star, 24 Feb. 2024

As a result of its status, lethal force can be used against a wolf only in defense of human life. —Paul A. Smith, Journal Sentinel, 11 Jan. 2024