Back

Answer:

DEFEND

Hint:

Think of supporting a teammate in sports or shielding someone from criticism—this word means to stand up for or protect.

Explanation:

"Back" here isn’t about turning around—it’s a verb meaning to support or protect someone, like "backing up a friend." The answer "DEFEND" fits because it’s a stronger synonym for that same idea of standing behind or guarding something. Think of how a goalkeeper defends the net or a lawyer defends a client, both acting as a protective back for their side. The clue plays on the less obvious meaning of a common word.

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General solving tip

When a clue says 'informally,' 'slangily,' or 'casually,' think slang, clipped forms, or texting abbreviations. Try the short casual word you'd use in speech or a message.

More tips → General Hints