defensives

plural of defensive
as in guards
a position of readiness to oppose actual or expected attack their unexpectedly harsh words put him on the defensive

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of defensives However, a deterioration in economic conditions will mean investors should add to traditional defensives and low-beta stocks, which are less volatile than the broader market. Sarah Min, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for defensives
Noun
  • The squad has a deeper bench this season thanks to the additions of guards Jordan Clarkson and Malcolm Brogdon and big man Guerschon Yabusele.
    Robert Marvi, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Harris was one of the best defensive guards available in the portal, and Rodriguez has been a solid contributor for Spain’s youth teams and played in the country’s top league (the ACB).
    CJ Moore, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • According to the organization’s shutdown contingency plan, park roads, lookouts, trails and open air memorials will remain accessible to visitors.
    Briah Lumpkins, Charlotte Observer, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Park roads, lookouts, trails and open-air memorials are directed to stay open; however, buildings and facilities that generally remain locked during business hours, such as visitor centers, will remain closed.
    Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Defensives.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defensives. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

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