defences

noun

1. 1

   The action of defending, of protecting from attack, danger or injury.

2. 2

   Something used to oppose attacks.

3. 3

   An argument in support or justification of something.

4. 4

   A strategy and tactics employed to prevent the other team from scoring; contrasted with offence.

5. 5

   The portion of a team dedicated to preventing the other team from scoring; contrasted with offence.

6. 6

   Government policy or (infra)structure related to the military.

   “Department of Defence”

7. 7

   Prohibition; a prohibitory ordinance.