Definition of "defence"

In cases of defence ’tis best to weighThe enemy more mighty than he seems:

1599, William Shakespeare, “The Life of Henry the Fift”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, [Act II, scene iv]

And nothing ’gainst Time’s scythe can make defenceSave breed, to brave him when he takes thee hence.

1609, William Shakespeare, “Sonnet 12”, in Shake-speares Sonnets. […], London: By G[eorge] Eld for T[homas] T[horpe] and are to be sold by William Aspley

Speak of my lameness, and I straight will halt,Against thy reasons making no defence.

1609, William Shakespeare, “Sonnet 89”, in Shake-speares Sonnets. […], London: By G[eorge] Eld for T[homas] T[horpe] and are to be sold by William Aspley

In Hodgson's defence, it must be stated that in large parts this was a vibrant, energetic performance with the emphasis almost exclusively on attack.

2016 June 11, Phil McNulty, “England 1-1 Russia”, in BBC Sport‎

[…] severe defences may be made against weaving any Linnen under a certain breadth, such as may be of better use to the poorest People […]

1673, William Temple, “An Essay upon the Advancement of Trade in Ireland” in Miscellanea, London: Edw[ard] Gellibrand, 1680, p. 116

Better manned and more strongly defenced.

1656, John Hales, Dixi Custodiam