Defensive

/dɪˈfɛn.sɪv/ · adjective

Meaning

Intended for defence; protective..

Definitions by Sense

1. Intended for defence; protective.
2. Intended to deter attack.
3. Performed so as to minimise risk.
4. Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion; oversensitive; thin-skinned.
5. (cricket) Of a bowling or fielding tactic designed to prevent the other side from scoring runs; of a batting tactic designed to prevent being out.
6. (chiefly sports) Pertaining to defense, as opposed to attack.
7. In a state or posture of defense.
8. A means, attitude or position of defense. Chiefly in on the defensive.

Example Sentences

a defensive perimeter

a defensive missile system

defensive driving

The victim held up his hand to repel the attacker and received a defensive knife wound.

The Italian opted for Bolton's Cahill alongside captain John Terry - and his decision was rewarded with a goal after only 13 minutes. Bulgaria gave a hint of defensive frailties to come when they failed to clear Young's corner, and when Gareth Barry found Cahill in the box he applied the finish past Nikolay Mihaylov.

[…]Once join'd, the contrary ſhe proves, a thorn Inteſtin, far within defenſive arms[…]

The Germans had developed a highly scientific defensive in which machine-guns replaced rifles and a maximum of punishment was inflicted upon an assaulting force with a minimum of human loss.

Such kinds of defensives are really rather protecting the local companies than the consumers.

Synonyms for defensive

Antonyms for defensive

Related Words

Word Forms

• more defensive
• most defensive
• defensives

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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