defence mechanism
noun/dɪˈfens mekənɪzəm/
/dɪˈfens mekənɪzəm/
(US English defense mechanism)
- a reaction by a living thing against attacks by enemies or diseases
- The immune system is the body's major defence mechanism.
- The body has natural defence mechanisms to protect it from disease.
- Plants have complex defence mechanisms, both chemical and electrical.
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- (psychology) a way in which somebody behaves without thinking about it to protect themselves from unpleasant feelings or situations
- He uses humour as a defence mechanism.
- Buying expensive things despite poverty is often a defence mechanism.
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defence mechanism