offense

[ uh-fens aw-fens, of-ens ]

noun

1. a violation or breaking of a social or moral rule; transgression; sin.

   Synonyms: fault, felony, trespass

2. a transgression of the law; misdemeanor.

   Synonyms: fault, felony, trespass

3. a cause of transgression or wrong.
4. something that offends or displeases.
5. the act of offending or displeasing.
6. the feeling of resentful displeasure caused:

   to give offense.

   Synonyms: wrath, resentment, umbrage, indignation

   Antonyms: pleasure

7. the act of attacking; attack or assault:

   weapons of offense.

   Synonyms: aggression

   Antonyms: defense

8. a person, army, etc., that is attacking.

   Synonyms: foe, enemy

9. Sports.
   1. the players or team unit responsible for attacking or scoring in a game.
   2. the players possessing or controlling the ball, puck, etc., or the aspects or period of a game when this obtains.
   3. a pattern or style of scoring attack:

      single-wing offense; fast-break offense.

   4. offensive effectiveness; ability to score:

      a total breakdown in offense.

10. Archaic. injury, harm, or hurt.

Other Words From

• self-of·fense noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of offense¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English offence, offense; in part from Middle French offens, from Latin offēnsus “collision, knock,” equivalent to offend(ere) ( offend ) + -tus suffix of verb action; in part from Middle French offense, ultimately from Latin offēnsa, feminine past participle of offendere

Idioms and Phrases

see no offense ; take offense .

Synonym Study

See crime.

Example Sentences

Prior to the incident at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, Porter posted bail and was released from the custody of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department on suspicion of committing a similar offense at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital in Santa Clarita, according to the Burbank Police Department.

From Los Angeles Times

When the offense went cold, he scored.

From Los Angeles Times

Facing a much more dangerous offense this week, proper communication will be the top priority, as Chase can stress defenses by lining up all over the field, Fulton said.

From Los Angeles Times

Although they’re one of the NFL’s youngest teams, the Rams have some experienced leadership on offense in quarterback Matthew Stafford and Kupp.

From Los Angeles Times

Emilia Krstevski, Sierra Canyon, 6-4, Jr.: She’s ready to use her size on offense and defense.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• breach
• crime
• infraction
• misdeed
• misdemeanor
• sin
• transgression
• wrongdoing