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:

1. serving or done for the purpose of resisting attack. 2. of or pertaining to defense. 3. sensitive to the threat of criticism or injury to one's ego. n. 4. a position or attitude of defense: on the defensive about …

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

Defensive definition: Of or relating to defense.

There are 17 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word defensive, five of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

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

3 days ago · Every NFL team's rankings across multiple defensive categories are provided here, if you are curious where everyone is ranked after Week 14. The Cowboys are best in the league on the …

Someone on the defensive is concerned with justifying their actions or words. They have a defensive attitude as they try to protect themselves.

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 taken to guard …