defensive 1 of 2

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

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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

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Examples of defensive in a Sentence

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
Through six games, that’s where Redick’s team ranked in defensive efficiency, a stunning statistic considering his team is anchored by one of the NBA’s premier defensive players in Anthony Davis. Dan Woike, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2024 Neurotic anxiety, however, arises from trying to avoid discomfort altogether, leaving us defensive and stuck. Luciana Paulise, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Noun
The opposition is already pinned back inside its own half, which puts them on the defensive. Steve Price, Forbes, 13 Oct. 2024 During the 1½ hour debate, both candidates found themselves on the defensive. Michael Collins, USA TODAY, 2 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for defensive 

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Cite this Entry

“Defensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defensive. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.

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