defense mechanism
noun
1
: an often unconscious mental process (such as repression) that makes possible compromise solutions to personal problems
2
: a defensive reaction by an organism
Examples of defense mechanism in a Sentence
She is projecting her anger on you as a defense mechanism.
the cell's normal defense mechanisms against infection
Recent Examples on the Web
This finding suggests that for people with avoidant attachment styles, the ick could manifest as a defense mechanism against emotional closeness.
—
Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025
This natural defense mechanism has grabbed our attention this spring, since our weather patterns have lent a hand in amplifying a natural phenomenon.
—Heather Zidack, Hartford Courant, 12 Apr. 2025
In certain people, this sets off a response from the immune system, the body's defense mechanism.
—Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2025
Inspired by Conan’s defense mechanisms, researchers are developing synthetic antioxidants that could protect astronauts from intense cosmic radiation on long-duration missions, or safeguard first responders in radiation accidents here on Earth.
—Scott Travers, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for defense mechanism
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Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025
This natural defense mechanism has grabbed our attention this spring, since our weather patterns have lent a hand in amplifying a natural phenomenon.
—Heather Zidack, Hartford Courant, 12 Apr. 2025
In certain people, this sets off a response from the immune system, the body's defense mechanism.
—Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2025
Inspired by Conan’s defense mechanisms, researchers are developing synthetic antioxidants that could protect astronauts from intense cosmic radiation on long-duration missions, or safeguard first responders in radiation accidents here on Earth.
—Scott Travers, Forbes, 24 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for defense mechanism
Cite this Entry
“Defense mechanism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defense%20mechanism. Accessed 14 May. 2025.
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