defended
/dɪˈfɛndɪd/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
Having defenses.
Adjective
Examples
For example, in the boreal forest where browsing by hares in winter is an important source of mortality, the juvenile-phase is more defended chemically against browsing by hares in winter than is the conspecific mature-phase (Table 2).
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
In which the defendant responds to the allegations made against them, typically by filing a defense or counterclaim in court.
Adjective
Examples
If this simpler procedure were adopted in a defended case the cost would be about 29l. if counsel were employed, and about 27l. if no counsel or solicitor were employed.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “defended” mean?
Having defenses.
Is “defended” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.