Defensive

Quick meaning: Defensive is an adjective meaning Intended for defence; protective.

Meaning

Intended for defence; protective.

More Meanings

1. Intended to deter attack.
2. Performed so as to minimise risk.
3. Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion; oversensitive; thin-skinned.
4. In a state or posture of defense.
5. A means, attitude or position of defense. Chiefly in on the defensive.
6. (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.
7. (chiefly sports) Pertaining to defense, as opposed to attack.

Example Sentences

defensive driving

a defensive perimeter

a defensive missile system

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

Word Forms

• defensives

Synonyms for defensive

Depending on context, synonyms include protective, justificative, apologetic, justificatory, antiaircraft, antisubmarine.

Antonyms for defensive

Common opposites include offensive.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include protective, excusatory, apologetic, justificatory, justificative, antitank.

Related Dictionary Tools