verteidigen

Definition & meaning

The verb verteidigen is used in several contexts:

1. To defend (physically or strategically): To protect someone or something from an attack or danger. This is used in military contexts, sports (like soccer), or when protecting one's property.
2. To defend (argumentatively): To speak in favor of someone or something, or to justify an opinion, action, or decision against criticism.
3. Reflexive usage (sich verteidigen): To defend oneself, either physically against an assailant or verbally against accusations.

Grammar & Word origin

Grammar:

• Type: Weak verb (regular).
• Conjugation: verteidigt (3rd person singular present), verteidigte (preterite), hat verteidigt (perfect).
• Reflexive: sich verteidigen (to defend oneself).

Word origin: The word is derived from the Middle High German verteidigen or vergedingen. It is composed of the prefix ver- (indicating an action directed away or a process) and the noun Teiding (an old term for a legal assembly, plea, or judicial decision). Historically, it meant to conduct a legal defense or to plead one's case in court.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

• beschützen↗ (to protect)
• abwehren↗ (to ward off)
• rechtfertigen↗ (to justify)
• in Schutz nehmen↗ (to take under one's protection)
• verfechten↗ (to advocate/champion)

Antonyms:

• angreifen↗ (to attack)
• attackieren↗ (to attack)
• preisgeben↗ (to abandon/expose)
• anklagen↗ (to accuse)