The antonyms for "defended" include words such as "attacked," "criticized," and "accused." If someone is not defended, they may feel vulnerable, exposed, or unsafe. The opposite of defending can take many forms, from outright hostility to indifference. For instance, if a person is not defended in a legal case, they may face punishment or penalty. Similarly, if a group or an idea is not defended, it may be discredited or undermined. Overall, antonyms for "defended" suggest a lack of protection or support, and they signal a need for action or intervention to address the situation.