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
Exhibiting behavior similar to symptoms of rabies is part of the animal's defense mechanism against predators.
—
Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025
Despite those defense mechanisms, Waymo also prepares for situations in which people get into the driver’s seat.
—Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 4 Jan. 2025
So, the ick is often our internal defense mechanism, working overtime to protect us from potential heartache, leading us to unconsciously push away great potential partners by focusing on unimportant qualities.
—Mark Travers, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025
Some would argue that presenting happily on social media, a contradiction of the internal experience (e.g., depression), was a defense mechanism or a means of survival.
—Essence, 10 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for defense mechanism 
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Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025
Despite those defense mechanisms, Waymo also prepares for situations in which people get into the driver’s seat.
—Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 4 Jan. 2025
So, the ick is often our internal defense mechanism, working overtime to protect us from potential heartache, leading us to unconsciously push away great potential partners by focusing on unimportant qualities.
—Mark Travers, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025
Some would argue that presenting happily on social media, a contradiction of the internal experience (e.g., depression), was a defense mechanism or a means of survival.
—Essence, 10 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for defense mechanism
Dictionary Entries Near defense mechanism
Cite this Entry
“Defense mechanism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defense%20mechanism. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.
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