DEFENSIVE Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

defensive 1 of 2

adjective

di-ˈfen(t)-siv

as in protective

intended to resist or prevent attack or aggression a defensive alliance among the small nations against the aggressors

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

defensive

2 of 2

noun

as in guard

a position of readiness to oppose actual or expected attack their unexpectedly harsh words put him on the defensive

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

offensive

Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of defensive

Adjective

What exactly that defense will look like will depend on whom Johnson hires to be his defensive coordinator. —

Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 25 Jan. 2025 If not for Buffalo’s infamous defensive collapse in the final 13 seconds of regulation during a Divisional Round loss to Kansas City three years ago, Allen may have reached his first Super Bowl by now. —

Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Jan. 2025

Noun

Texas defensive back Andrew Mukuba hauled in a goal-line interception off Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt on the final play. —

Jackson Thompson, Fox News, 1 Jan. 2025 The possible 2024 starter became the second Georgia defensive back in the past two weeks to announce his intention to enter the portal but then pull back. —

Marc Weiszer, The Tennessean, 20 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for defensive