defensive

Word parts

defense + -ive

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /dɪˈfɛnsɪv/

• Audio (AU)

  (file)

Adjective

Positive defensive

Comparative more defensive

Superlative most defensive

1. Defensive positions, weapons, plans, etc. are used to protect against attack.
   • Antonyms: offensive and attacking

   China's growth puts Canadian employers in a defensive position.

2. (sports) A defensive player tries to stop the other team from scoring.
   • Antonyms: offensive and attacking

   A $ 10 million bonus, makes him the highest-paid defensive player in the National Football League.

3. If someone is being defensive or on the defensive, they feel unsure about their position, and they try to show that they are right.
   • Antonym: confident

   I don't know why she gets very defensive every time I ask about her job.

Related words

• defend