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

But Vidmanova, who won the NCAA triple crown while representing the University of Georgia, became more defensive as the match wore on, as if expecting Liutova to beat herself. — James Hansen, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2026

During Friday’s 7-0 loss, Apple TV play-by-play broadcaster Wayne Randazzo praised infield coach Ron Washington for his work with Luis Arraez, who has been one of baseball’s best defensive second basemen this year. — Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 2 Aug. 2026

Noun

Parenting advice has changed so much in even the last two decades that folks from older generations who raised seemingly healthy kids might feel left behind, embarrassed by their outdated opinions, or defensive of their own parenting choices. — Parents, 16 July 2026

The campaign for the measure would be expected to capitalize on the voter enthusiasm gap that so far this year favors Democrats, who typically are more supportive of tax increases, while Republicans are on the defensive. — Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 June 2026