defenders

noun

plural of defender
as in guardians
someone that protects one of the traditional roles of an older brother is that of schoolyard defender

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of defenders In a fairly standard IDP league (two starters at defensive lineman, linebacker, defensive back and maybe a flex spot), top defenders will usually start being drafted in Rounds 4-6. — Gary Davenport, New York Times, 27 July 2026 As a result, defenders must prepare for a world where vulnerabilities are exploited at machine speed. — Tim Keary, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 The second-year wideout beat a trio of defenders on a seam route to haul in a touchdown pass from backup QB Kenny Pickett. — Mike Kaye july 26, Charlotte Observer, 26 July 2026 The low block—where teams massed defenders rigidly behind the ball—not so much. — Sam Knight, New Yorker, 20 July 2026 However, the number of 6-foot-9 players who can beat defenders off the dribble with quickness can be counted on one hand. — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 19 July 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for defenders
  1. guardians
  2. custodians
  3. protectors
  4. protections
  5. bodyguards
  6. guards
Noun
  • In a statement Wednesday, police urged parents and guardians to have open conversations with their children about safe touch and inappropriate adult behavior.
    — Tim Fang, CBS News, 30 July 2026
  • The pieces resonate with fellow Eaton fire survivors, some of whom embrace the whimsical figures as protective guardians and first artworks in new homes.
    — Emily Tarinelli, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026
Definition of guardians
Noun
  • While custodians often calculate RMDs, taxpayers should verify these amounts, as errors can still lead to IRS penalties.
    — Bob Carlson, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
  • Even a band like Opeth, unwavering custodians of 21st-century prog, hardly share much in common with other metal bands representing this style.
    — Sam Goldner, Pitchfork, 19 July 2026
Definition of custodians
Noun
  • Linn said dogs were often seen in the Bronze Age and mythology as protectors, often guarding the house.
    — Maddie Rhodes, USA Today, 24 July 2026
  • Six legs and a center support help create a stable foundation, while linen protectors cover the rail ends and floor-friendly glides help prevent scratches on hard floors.
    — Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 22 July 2026
Definition of protectors
Noun
  • In June, a federal judge ruled against Katherine and Garry Leach, finding that federal courts could not weigh in on how churches spend their donations, citing First Amendment protections.
    — Giles Hudson, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Children who are victims of trafficking or abuse, for example, are entitled to special protections.
    — Chiara Eisner, NPR, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of protections
Noun
  • His teammates - more akin to bodyguards this summer - do the dirty work, which leaves Messi to focus solely on unlocking the opposition’s defense with his unrivaled quality.
    — Ben Church, CNN Money, 19 July 2026
  • All eyes on the Crab Rodríguez Castro entered through the back door of El Antojo restaurant in Old Havana several days later, flanked by bodyguards.
    — Romina Ruiz-Goiriena, USA Today, 6 July 2026
Definition of bodyguards
Noun
  • Ukrainian border guards patrol the area around the clock using armored vehicles, drones and other surveillance systems.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 25 July 2026
  • The fan guards in the walk-in cooler was encrusted with residue.
    — Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado July 24, Sacbee.com, 24 July 2026
Definition of guards

Browse Nearby Words

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defenders
defending
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Cite this Entry

“Defenders.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defenders. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of defenders for Spanish Speakers

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