Synonyms of defensive

defensive 1 of 2

adjective

di-ˈfen(t)-siv 

as in protective

intended to resist or prevent attack or aggression

a defensive alliance among the small nations against the aggressors

Synonyms & Similar Words

• protective
• self-protective
• preventive
• deterrent
• secure
• safe

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• offensive
• aggressive
• belligerent
• warlike
• combative
• militant
• contentious
• pugnacious
• quarrelsome
• truculent
• bellicose
• in-your-face
• scrappy

defensive

2 of 2

noun

as in guard

a position of readiness to oppose actual or expected attack

their unexpectedly harsh words put him on the defensive

Synonyms & Similar Words

• guard
• lookout
• alert
• watch
• qui vive

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• offensive

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of defensive

Adjective

Defensively, Philadelphia will also be without pass rusher Nolan Smith (concussion) and defensive back Michael Carter (abdomen) after they were ruled out. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Oct. 2026

For this week, however, Morris is an evil stepsibling, the 49ers’ defensive coordinator trying to slow down Robinson and the Falcons’ offense. — Daniel Flick, AJC.com, 24 Oct. 2026

Noun

Fifth-year defensive back Roger McCreary has heard the talk about how poorly the unit has played. — CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026

Rotational rookie defensive tackle LT Overton popped up on the injury report on Friday with a foot injury that prevented him from practicing. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Oct. 2026