· argue or speak in defense of; "She supported the motion to strike"

Synonym(s): support, fend_for

Hypernym(s): argue, reason

· be on the defensive; act against an attack

Hypernym(s): prevent, keep

Antonym(s): attack

· protect against a challenge or attack; "Hold that position behind the trees!"; "Hold the bridge against the enemy's attacks"

Synonym(s): guard, hold

Hypernym(s): protect

· fight against or resist strongly; "The senator said he would oppose the bill"; "Don't fight it!"

Synonym(s): fight, oppose, fight_back, fight_down

Hypernym(s): contend, fight, struggle

· protect or fight for as a champion

Synonym(s): champion

Hypernym(s): back, endorse, indorse, plump_for, plunk_for, support

· be the defense counsel for someone in a trial; "Ms. Smith will represent the defendant"

Synonym(s): represent

Antonym(s): prosecute

· state or assert; "He maintained his innocence"

Synonym(s): maintain

Hypernym(s): affirm