defensive
2 ENTRIES FOUND:
Britannica Dictionary definition of DEFENSIVE
1
always used before a noun
:
defending or protecting someone or something from attack
:
helping to keep a person or thing safe
—
compare 1offensive 4
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The city began building a defensive wall around its borders.
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The government decided to join a defensive alliance with several other nations.
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Defensive driving classes [=classes that teach you how to be a safe driver] can help you avoid accidents.
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We have taken many defensive measures [=we have done things to protect ourselves] against terrorist attacks.
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defensive actions
2
[more defensive; most defensive]
:
behaving in a way that shows that you feel people are criticizing you
— often + about
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I was surprised by his defensive reaction to my suggestion.
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defensive behaviors/attitudes
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There's no need to get so defensive. I was only making a suggestion.
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When we asked her about the mistakes, she became defensive.
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He can be a bit defensive about his work as an artist.
3
always used before a noun,
sports
:
of or relating to the way that players try to stop an opponent from scoring in a game or contest
—
compare 1offensive 3
-
The coach has a strong defensive strategy.
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a defensive player/lineman
— defensively
adverb-
“It wasn't my fault,” she said defensively.
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The team needs to improve its game defensively. [=it needs to make its defense better]
— defensiveness
noun [noncount]-
There was a bit of defensiveness in his answer.
2
defensive
/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/
noun
2
defensive
/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/
noun
Britannica Dictionary definition of DEFENSIVE
on/onto the defensive
1
:
in or into a situation in which you are forced to defend or protect someone or something
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We won after keeping the other team on the defensive for most of the game.
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Their soldiers appear to be on the defensive.
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The company was pushed/forced onto the defensive in the lawsuit.
2
:
in or into a position in which you have to argue that something (such as one of your actions or beliefs) is good or correct when others say that it is bad or wrong
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The reporter often asks questions that put/place people on the defensive.
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He found himself on the defensive when the subject of the environment was discussed.
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The company is now on the defensive for its illegal business dealings.
