defensive

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   Intended for defence

   Intended for defence; protective.

   • a defensive perimeter
2. 2

   Intended to deter attack.

   • a defensive missile system
3. 3

   Performed so as to minimise risk.

   • defensive driving
4. ›+ 5 more definitionsshow fewer

   1. 4

      Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion

      Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion; oversensitive; thin-skinned.

   2. 5

      Of a bowling or fielding tactic designed to prevent the other side from scoring runs

      Of a bowling or fielding tactic designed to prevent the other side from scoring runs; of a batting tactic designed to prevent being out.

   3. 6

      Pertaining to defense, as opposed to attack.

      • The victim held up his hand to repel the attacker and received a defensive knife wound.
   4. 7

      In a state or posture of defense.

      • […]Once join'd, the contrary ſhe proves, a thorn Inteſtin, far within defenſive arms[…]
   5. 8

      A means, attitude or position of defense. Chiefly in on the defensive.

      • The Germans had developed a highly scientific defensive in which machine-guns replaced rifles and a maximum of punishment was inflicted upon an assaulting force with a minimum of human loss.
      • Such kinds of defensives are really rather protecting the local companies than the consumers.

The neighborhood

• antonymoffensive