adjective
defensive
dih-FEHN-sihv
adjective
1
Intended to protect against attack or criticism.
"The company took a defensive stance after the media reports."
2
Reacting to criticism with unusual sensitivity or resistance.
"He got defensive the moment I mentioned the missed deadline."
How to Use Defensive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither protective in purpose, or touchy and quick to justify oneself when challenged.
Common pairings
get defensive
defensive tactics
on the defensive
Word Forms
more defensive comparative, defensives plural, most defensive superlative
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The company took a _____ stance after the media reports.
Etymology
From Middle French défensif, formed from defense + -ive.