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

DEFENSIVE definition: 1. used to protect someone or something against attack: 2. too quick to protect yourself from…. Learn more.

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

1. serving or done for the purpose of resisting attack. 2. of or pertaining to defense. 3. sensitive to the threat of criticism or injury to one's ego. n. 4. a position or attitude of defense: on the defensive about …

Defensive definition: Of or relating to defense.

de•fen•sive /dɪˈfɛnsɪv/ adj. [before a noun] of or relating to defense: defensive weapons. Psychology sensitive to criticism: There's no need to be so defensive. n. [uncountable] on the defensive, to be in …

Defensive refers to any action, behavior, state, strategy, or mechanism intended to protect or prevent harm, injury, or attack. It typically involves measures or tactics used to guard against something …

There are 17 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word defensive, five of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

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 …

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 …