DEFENSIVE definition: serving to defend; protective. See examples of defensive used in a sentence.

The meaning of DEFENSIVE is serving to defend or protect. How to use defensive in a sentence.

Recommended for you

Dec 14, 2025Β Β· Adjective defensive (comparative more defensive, superlative most defensive) Intended for defence; protective.

If someone is defensive, the person feels criticized and quickly tries to explain:

    The reporter often asks questions that put/place people on the defensive. He found himself on the defensive when the subject of the environment was discussed. The company is now on the defensive …

    Definition of defensive adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

    When a person is acting defensive, they're trying to protect or justify themselves. People who are insecure or guilty tend to act defensive. Also, defensive players in football try to prevent the other …

    Someone who is defensive is behaving in a way that shows they feel unsure or threatened. Like their children, parents are often defensive about their private lives. She heard the blustering, defensive …

    Definition of defensive adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

    When a person is acting defensive, they're trying to protect or justify themselves. People who are insecure or guilty tend to act defensive. Also, defensive players in football try to prevent the other …

    Someone who is defensive is behaving in a way that shows they feel unsure or threatened. Like their children, parents are often defensive about their private lives. She heard the blustering, defensive …

    You may also like