self-defence

noun

1. the act of defending oneself, one's actions, ideas, etc
2. boxing as a means of defending the person (esp in the phrase noble art of self-defence )
3. law the right to defend one's person, family, or property against attack or threat of attack by the use of no more force than is reasonable

Derived Forms

• ˌself-deˈfensive, adjective

Example Sentences

Lord Prescott said he had acted in self-defence and police refused to take any further action.

From BBC

John Prescott said he had acted in self-defence and police refused to take any further action.

From BBC

Apparently supported by a paramilitary self-defence group, the men attacked the vehicle, removed two of the patients, took them outside hospital grounds and executed them.

From BBC

He had made unsolicited comments that he had acted in self-defence and had "prayed to God the deceased would be all right".

From BBC

But the group said its ambulance staff were also assaulted in the incident by "law enforcement officers and members of a self-defence group".

From BBC