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
Some will have exemptions, including local law enforcement, those with a valid license and acting in self-defense, those with a valid hunting license, and anyone discharging a weapon at a local shooting range or gun club.
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Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2025
The ship—manned by both military and civilian personnel—has been modified to enhance its communications and self-defense capabilities.
—Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025
Ed previously served as the executive director of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, an organization that offers several healing programs for survivors and self-defense classes.
—Yasmeen Hamadeh, People.com, 6 June 2025
Alexander, however, said that Smallwood waived his claim to self-defense by pleading guilty, including to bringing a firearm into a school.
—Robert A. Cronkleton, Kansas City Star, 6 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-defense
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Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2025
The ship—manned by both military and civilian personnel—has been modified to enhance its communications and self-defense capabilities.
—Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025
Ed previously served as the executive director of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, an organization that offers several healing programs for survivors and self-defense classes.
—Yasmeen Hamadeh, People.com, 6 June 2025
Alexander, however, said that Smallwood waived his claim to self-defense by pleading guilty, including to bringing a firearm into a school.
—Robert A. Cronkleton, Kansas City Star, 6 June 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 13 Jun. 2025.
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