|
|
- pronunciation:
- dih
fen
sihv
- parts of speech:
- adjective, noun
- features:
- Word Combinations (adjective)
| part of speech: |
adjective |
| definition 1: |
intended for defense or protection, or serving to defend or protect.
Defensive fortifications were built along the sea coast.Defensive measures were taken to protect the island from invasion.- similar words:
- protective
|
| definition 2: |
done in order to defend against attack.
The defensive maneuver succeeded in fending off the attack.If your opponent brings up that matter, you'll need to be ready with a defensive argument.- antonyms:
- offensive
|
| definition 3: |
of or relating to defense.
Greater defensive planning is called for. |
| definition 4: |
taking or tending to take an excessively self-protective stance when feeling as if one is being criticized or that one's ego is being threatened.
He is always defensive about the failure of his business; according to him, everything was his partner's fault.She's a rather defensive person and reacts angrily to even the mildest criticism. |
| definition 5: |
reflecting a need to protect oneself from a real or perceived attack.
When I asked a question about the decision, he answered in an angry and defensive tone. |
| related words: |
guardian, militant, security |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| part of speech: |
noun |
| definition: |
an attitude of defense; readiness to defend, esp. oneself.
He is always on the defensive at the staff meetings. |
| derivations: |
defensively (adv.), defensiveness (n.) |
|
|