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
Trump struck a deal Friday with NATO to send Kyiv Patriot batteries, a key defense mechanism against ballistic missiles.
—
Amalia Huot-Marchand, The Hill, 11 July 2025
Instead of encouraging genuine intimacy, oversharing too soon can become a defense mechanism—one that covertly seeks reassurance rather than connection.
—Mark Travers, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
This size difference is likely linked to the males’ reproductive defense mechanism.
—Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 Mar. 2025
Real relationships, however, are the best defense against our own defense mechanisms.
—Shani Harmon, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for defense mechanism
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Amalia Huot-Marchand, The Hill, 11 July 2025
Instead of encouraging genuine intimacy, oversharing too soon can become a defense mechanism—one that covertly seeks reassurance rather than connection.
—Mark Travers, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
This size difference is likely linked to the males’ reproductive defense mechanism.
—Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 Mar. 2025
Real relationships, however, are the best defense against our own defense mechanisms.
—Shani Harmon, Forbes.com, 25 June 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 22 Jul. 2025.
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