What is the role of "defendant" in a legal proceeding?

In a legal proceeding, the role of the defendant is that of the party accused of wrongdoing. This means that the defendant is the individual or entity that is being challenged or sued by another party, typically referred to as the plaintiff. The defendant is required to respond to the allegations made against them and may present defenses or counter-arguments in their favor. The defendant's position is crucial in the legal process, as they have the opportunity to defend themselves against the claims and provide evidence to support their case. This role is essential for maintaining a fair and balanced judicial process, where both sides of a dispute are heard and considered.