* ἀμύνω (amýnō): This verb implies warding off, protecting, or defending against attack. It's a good general-purpose word.
* προστάττω (prostattó): This means "to command," "to protect," or "to defend," often implying a position of authority in the defense.
* ὑπερασπίζω (hyperaspízō): This literally means "to defend with a shield," and carries a more literal and physical connotation of defense.
* ἀπολογέομαι (apologéomai): This means "to make a defense," "to plead one's case," or "to apologize." This is appropriate when defending oneself in a legal or rhetorical context.
The best choice will depend heavily on the specific situation being described.