Defend and Repel

Defend

Defend verb - To drive danger or attack away from.

Repel and defend are semantically related. In some cases you can use "Repel" instead a verb "Defend".

Repel

Repel verb - Force or drive back.
Usage example: repel the attacker

Defend and repel are semantically related. Sometimes you can use "Defend" instead a verb "Repel".

Nearby Words: repelled, repelling

Common collocations

man defend man repel man
people defend people repel people
time defend time repel time
anyone defend anyone repel anyone
Other words: humans, allies.

Both words in one sentence

  • When engaged in combat, the player must then use the weapons to repel the approaching enemies and defend their city.
  • Literature / Updraft Naturally, they're hard to defend against, and Kirit's ability to repel them is why the Singers are so keen to force her join up.
  • Video Game / FTL: Faster Than Light Other drones can defend against incoming fire, especially missiles, repair damaged systems, repair your ship's hull, repel boarders, or be sent over to board the enemy.
Cite this Source
Repel and Defend. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 22, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/defend/repel
Defend & Repel. N.p., 2016. Web. 22 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/defend/repel>.
Repel or Defend. 2016. Accessed July 22, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/defend/repel.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "defend" and "repel" have occurred on timeline