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
The homicide figures do not include killings that occurred in self-defense or in other circumstances not measured in Chicago police statistics.
—
Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 27 May 2025
This framework was sustainable—both strategically and politically—as long as the U.S. military retained its dominance in the region, the threat from China was confined, and the potential contributions of U.S. allies were limited to their own self-defense.
—Ely Ratner, Foreign Affairs, 27 May 2025
Pointing a gun inevitably means firing a shot, and Ellie fires in self-defense, accidently killing both with one bullet.
—Dani Di Placido, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025
The girl's family asked for her identity to remain undisclosed, with the teenager hoping that her story will inspire women and other girls to learn self-defense skills that can save their lives.
—Peter Aitken, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-defense
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Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 27 May 2025
This framework was sustainable—both strategically and politically—as long as the U.S. military retained its dominance in the region, the threat from China was confined, and the potential contributions of U.S. allies were limited to their own self-defense.
—Ely Ratner, Foreign Affairs, 27 May 2025
Pointing a gun inevitably means firing a shot, and Ellie fires in self-defense, accidently killing both with one bullet.
—Dani Di Placido, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025
The girl's family asked for her identity to remain undisclosed, with the teenager hoping that her story will inspire women and other girls to learn self-defense skills that can save their lives.
—Peter Aitken, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-defense
Cite this Entry
“Self-defense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-defense. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.
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