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
And the body's first reaction to any unnatural cell death is to start a defense mechanism.
—
Kristen Jordan Shamus, USA Today, 19 May 2025
It can even be seen as a defense mechanism in some circumstances.
—Lindsay Kohler, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
Researchers note that bitter taste receptors likely evolved as a defense mechanism to prevent the consumption of harmful substances.
—Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025
In certain cases, though, holding back can be a subconscious defense mechanism—your mind’s way of protecting you from being let down, Lurie says.
—Jenna Ryu, SELF, 31 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for defense mechanism
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Kristen Jordan Shamus, USA Today, 19 May 2025
It can even be seen as a defense mechanism in some circumstances.
—Lindsay Kohler, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
Researchers note that bitter taste receptors likely evolved as a defense mechanism to prevent the consumption of harmful substances.
—Gordon G. Chang, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Apr. 2025
In certain cases, though, holding back can be a subconscious defense mechanism—your mind’s way of protecting you from being let down, Lurie says.
—Jenna Ryu, SELF, 31 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 23 May. 2025.
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