defensive

Meanings

Plural: defensives

Noun

• an attitude of defensiveness (especially in the phrase `on the defensive')
• A means, attitude or position of defense.

Adjective

• intended or appropriate for defending against or deterring aggression or attack
  • "defensive weapons"
  • "a defensive stance"

Adjective Satellite

• attempting to justify or defend in speech or writing

Adj

• Intended for defence; protective.
• Intended to deter attack.
• Performed so as to minimise risk.
• Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion; oversensitive; thin-skinned.
• Of a bowling or fielding tactic designed to prevent the other side from scoring runs; of a batting tactic designed to prevent being out.
• Pertaining to defense, as opposed to attack.
• In a state or posture of defense.

Synonyms

defensive attitude, justificative, justificatory

Antonyms

offensive

Related Words

defensive industry, on the defensive

Anagrams of defensive