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

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

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

Intended or appropriate for defending; protective. 2. a. Intended to withstand or deter aggression or attack: a defensive weapons system; defensive behavior. b. Of or relating to the effort to …

Defensive definition: Of or relating to defense.

2 days ago · Adjective defensive (comparative more defensive, superlative most defensive) Intended for defence; protective.

Sep 21, 2025 · Defensive is an adjective describing an attitude or behavior aimed at protecting oneself from criticism, harm, or attack. It often implies a reactive stance where actions are …

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 …

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: 1. quick to protect yourself from being criticized: 2. A defensive player in a sports team tries…. Learn more.