defend

defend verb uk/dɪˈfend/ us defend verb
(SUPPORT)

B2 to support someone or something that is being criticized

защищать, отстаивать
The newspaper's editor defend ed his decision to publish the photos. defend verb
(SPORT)

to try to stop the other sports team from scoring points

защищать (в спорте)
  defend a championship/title, etc
to try to win a game or competition that you have won before

отстаивать чемпионское звание/титул и т. д.
She will be defend ing her title for the third year running. defend er noun [ C ] B2

защитник