self-defense

noun

self-de·​fense ˌself-di-ˈfen(t)s 

1

: a plea of justification for the use of force or for homicide

2

: the act of defending oneself, one's property, or a close relative

Examples of self-defense in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Many observers have said bystander videos contradict those claims of self-defense. —Robin Respaut, USA Today, 1 Feb. 2026

Topics include interview skills, resume writing, public speaking, media training, self-defense, professional clothing and make-up guidance for all occasions as well as tips for building confidence and poise. —Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Jan. 2026

Authorities said the man carried the gun for self-defense purposes. —Harry Harris, Mercury News, 30 Jan. 2026

While the Department of Justice deemed the shooting self-defense, the incident sparked widespread protests and brought long-term scrutiny to policing in the area. —Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 29 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1609, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for self-defense

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

Kids Definition

self-defense

noun

self-de·​fense

ˌself-di-ˈfen(t)s

: the act of defending oneself, one's property, or a close relative

Legal Definition

self-defense

noun

self-de·​fense

ˈself-di-ˈfens

1

: the use of force to defend oneself

2

: an affirmative defense (as to a murder charge) alleging that the defendant used force necessarily to protect himself or herself because of a reasonable belief that the other party intended to inflict great bodily harm or death see also justification sense 2