KanjiJLPT N2
Ward Off

ward off, defend, protect, resist

Mnemonic

The village elder raises a giant compass like a shield, its spinning needle generating a powerful magnetic barrier. This is how they Ward Off every invading army—the compass repels all metal weapons, sending soldiers fleeing from the village gates.
Additional thoughts
Picture the compass needle whirling so fast it becomes a circular force field around the village walls, deflecting swords and arrows magnetically. The left radical (village) plus right radical (compass) together form a defensive whole.
Quick recall
A village wields a magnetic compass barrier to Ward Off all invaders.

Details

The keyword for 防 is ward off. This kanji conveys the idea of defending against something, blocking it, or preventing it from advancing. It encompasses meanings related to protection, defense, and prevention, such as guarding against danger, keeping threats at bay, or taking precautionary measures. The sense is one of actively resisting or repelling something unwanted before it can cause harm.
On'yomi
ぼう
Kun'yomi
ふせ.ぐ