defensive

adjective

/dɪˈfen.sɪv/

Definition

› used to protect someone or something against attack: These are purely defensive weapons, not designed for attack. → Opposite offensive adjectiveDefending and protectingBacking, supporting and defendingPreserving and savingResponding to an attackArms and munitions in general C2 too quick to protect yourself from being criticized: When asked about his decision, he got very defensive. There's no need to get so defensive!Answering and respondingDenying and contradicting › in a sports event, trying to prevent the opposing player or players from scoring points, goals, etc.: He's currently the best defensive player on the team.Sports and games generally

(Definition of defensive adjective from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)

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