Defensive definition
An attitude or position of defense.
noun
Defending.
adjective
Constantly feeling under attack and hence quick to justify one's actions.
adjective
Intended or appropriate for defending; protective.
adjective
Designating or of the side that defends a goal, basket, etc. in a contest.
adjective
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A means of defense.
noun
The definition of defensive is something designed to protect or secure, or being quick to defend against criticism or anticipating criticism or complaint.
When a country builds up its army in preparation for an attack to secure its borders, this is an example of when it takes a defensive position.
When you are over-sensitive about your mother-in-law's criticisms of your housekeeping skills and you are constantly ready to say "I clean fine!" this is an example of a time when you are defensive.
adjective
(psychology) Constantly protecting oneself from criticism, exposure of one's shortcomings, or other real or perceived threats to the ego.
adjective
Intended to withstand or deter aggression or attack.
A defensive weapons system; defensive behavior.
adjective
Of or relating to the effort to prevent an opponent from gaining points in a game or athletic contest.
adjective
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Performed so as to avoid risk, danger, or legal liability.
Defensive driving; defensive medicine.
adjective
(obs.) Something that defends.
noun
A position of defense.
noun
(psychology) Constantly protecting oneself from criticism, exposure of one's shortcomings, or other real or perceived threats to the ego.
adjective
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In a state or posture of defense.
adjective
Of or relating to defense.
adjective
Of or for defense.
adjective
Intended or appropriate for defending; protective.
adjective
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on the defensive
- Prepared to withstand or counter aggression or attack.
idiom
Other Word Forms
Noun
Singular:
defensive
Plural:
defensivesIdioms and Phrasal Verbs
Origin of defensive
- From Middle French défensif
From Wiktionary