The term defense is derived from Old French deffense, which means “to defend”. In its most common usage, defence refers to measures taken to protect something or someone from harm, danger or loss. It can also refer to legal representation in a court of law, where the goal is to prove that an individual accused of committing a crime did not do so and should be acquitted. Additionally, defense may describe actions taken by governments or military forces to safeguard their country or people from external aggression or attack.