defensive
/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/ · de·fen·sive
adjective
- Intended to protect or guard against attack, danger, or criticism. The castle’s defensive walls were reinforced after the siege.
- Characterized by a desire to protect oneself from perceived threats; guarded or cautious. She gave a defensive reply when the interviewer questioned her credentials.
- Relating to the act or strategy of defending in sports or games. The team’s defensive tactics frustrated their opponents throughout the match.
noun
- A defensive maneuver, action, or strategy. The coach praised the defensive that stopped the opposing striker in the final minutes.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Did you know? In early 20th‑century baseball slang, "the defensive" referred to the entire fielding unit, a usage that survives in modern commentary about a team's overall defensive performance.