# zone defense

CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/zone-defense
Updated: 2026-07-27

## Definition

a defensive strategy in team sports where each player guards a specific area of the field or court instead of following one specific opponent. It helps the team protect the most important parts of the playing area.

For teachers: a defensive system in team sports in which players are responsible for guarding a designated area of the playing surface rather than marking specific opposing players. It is designed to protect high-percentage scoring areas and force difficult shots.

## Examples

- The basketball team switched to a zone defense to stop the opponent's drives.
- The coach implemented a zone defense to limit the opposing team's ability to penetrate the paint and force them to shoot from the perimeter.
- While a man-to-man scheme relies on individual defensive prowess, a well-executed zone defense requires constant communication and disciplined rotation to prevent gaps from opening between defenders.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'in' when describing the defensive formation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.