26984 words

defensive

10 definitions • 12 examples
1
used to protect someone or something against attack:

Examples:

These are purely defensive weapons, not designed for attack.
2
too quick to protect yourself from being criticized:

Examples:

When asked about his decision, he got very defensive.
There's no need to get so defensive!
3
in a sports event, trying to prevent the opposing player or players from scoring points, goals, etc.:

Examples:

He's currently the best defensive player on the team.
4
ready to protect yourself because you are expecting to be criticized or attacked:

Examples:

The government has been put on the defensive, accused by critics of doing too little too late.
5
intended to protect against attack or harm:

Examples:

a defensive strategy
It’s too late to sign up for the defensive driving class.
6
If someone is defensive, the person feels criticized and quickly tries to explain:

Examples:

Don’t be defensive – I’m just asking why you didn’t vote.
7
trying to prevent the opposing player or players from scoring points:

Examples:

The team’s defensive strategy was effective.
8
an investment that is defensive is very safe, with little or no risk, and its value does not change very much over a period of time:

Examples:

a defensive share/stock
9
trying to protect someone or something from harm or attack:

Examples:

a defensive measure/move
10
an investment that is very safe, with little or no risk, and whose value does not change very much over a period of time:

Examples:

Analysts said investors were moving to defensives that had enough cash to cover a high dividend.

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