† deˈfendanceObs. Also 5 -ens. [a. OF.defendance, deff- (13th c. in Godefroy), defence, resistance, f.defendre to defend.] Defence. a1500Orol. Sap. in Anglia X. 389 Heelful defendens in alle dyuerse periles.1600Abp. Abbot Exp. Jonah 550 Our chalenges, and defendances for combats in the field.