on defense

idiom

sports

: on the part of a team that defends the goal

She began the season on defense, but her coach later put her on offense.

Examples of on defense in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The AfD’s views on defense spending are deeply rooted in a nationalistic conception of German military power outside of constraining institutions such as the EU and NATO. —Sudha David-Wilp, Foreign Affairs, 23 Dec. 2025

One of the Warriors’ marquee additions this past offseason, Golden State signed Horford to add size on defense, spacing on offense and leadership in the locker room. —Evan Webeck, Mercury News, 23 Dec. 2025

The young blue-chippers on defense have gotten better, especially against the pass. —The Athletic College Football Staff, New York Times, 21 Dec. 2025

Teddy Shuman and Labanara especially stood out on defense, pairing with Gavin O’Toole, Brayden Dickie and Jimmy Howard to help limit shots on Matt Wright (19 saves). —Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 21 Dec. 2025

Rhymes for on defense

• antisense
• commonsense
• effulgence
• frankincense
• ninepence
• nondefense
• penitence
• recommence
• recompence
• recompense
• cense
• dense