as in protective
intended to resist or prevent attack or aggression
a defensive alliance among the small nations against the aggressors
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Recent Examples of defensive
Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 May 2025
So Blay, Scott and Moten appear likely to be the top three defensive tackles, with ends Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor able to move inside when needed.
—Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 14 May 2025
Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2025
The Padres did not play all that well at times, though there was the big-league defensive play Manny Machado made and Fernando Tatis Jr.s’ home run that sailed out of the minor-league ballpark and catcher Elías Díaz did throw out a runner at second base in the eighth inning.
—Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for defensive
Adjective
From a coaching standpoint, TCU should have continuity in the third season under offensive coordinator Kendal Briles and the second season of defensive coordinator Andy Avalos.
—Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 May 2025
So Blay, Scott and Moten appear likely to be the top three defensive tackles, with ends Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor able to move inside when needed.
—Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 14 May 2025
Noun
Outside of second-year defensive back Demani Richardson, the cupboard was bare, and for good reason.
—Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2025
The Padres did not play all that well at times, though there was the big-league defensive play Manny Machado made and Fernando Tatis Jr.s’ home run that sailed out of the minor-league ballpark and catcher Elías Díaz did throw out a runner at second base in the eighth inning.
—Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for defensive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for defensive
guard
Noun
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However, despite the recent optimism, there’s one key problem that might catch investors off guard.—
Trefis Team,
Forbes.com,
16 May 2025
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Heat mock drafts with 20th pick With the draft order formally set ahead of the draft combine, a look at names various mock drafts have linked to the Heat at No. 20: ESPN: Liam McNeeley, UConn, guard, freshman.—
Ira Winderman,
Sun Sentinel,
16 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Defensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defensive. Accessed 23 May. 2025.
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