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defalcate
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defense mechanism

de·fense mech·a·nism (plural de·fense mech·a·nisms)


noun 
Definition:
 
1. protective mental activity: any means of avoiding emotional distress, destructive impulses, or a threat to self-esteem, especially the suppression of unwanted thoughts or memories

2. protective physical activity: a natural protective response to danger or attack used by an organism, e.g. when faced with a predator or invaded by a disease agent

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