defend

Verb

• state or assert
  • He maintained his innocence
    

• be the defense counsel for someone in a trial
  • Ms. Smith will represent the defendant
    

• protect or fight for as a champion

• fight against or resist strongly
  • The senator said he would oppose the bill
    
  • Don't fight it!
    

• protect against a challenge or attack
  • Hold that position behind the trees!
    
  • Hold the bridge against the enemy's attacks
    

• be on the defensive; act against an attack

• argue or speak in defense of
  • She supported the motion to strike
    

Related words

• Synonyms: 
  maintain , represent , champion , fight , oppose , fight back , fight down , guard , hold , support , fend for
• Antonyms: 
  prosecute , attack , assail