defensives

noun

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 There remains a rotation underway – financials over tech , value over growth , defensives over high-beta stocks – simply not enough to hold the indexes harmless. — Michael Santoli, CNBC, 17 Dec. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for defensives
  1. guards
  2. lookouts
Noun
  • Cots, bottle warmers, bottle sterilizing tablets, and bed guards are offered, as well as babysitting services, swimming lessons, complimentary non-motorized water sports, and blended baby food especially prepared by the chef.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 July 2026
  • On Saturday, Reeve commended the team’s centers but found the guards struggling to make anything work on the defensive end.
    — Anya Armentrout, Twin Cities, 19 July 2026
Definition of guards
Noun
  • Dogs are natural lookouts who love to survey their territory.
    — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 2 July 2026
  • This family-friendly beach features a boardwalk with lookouts, playground, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits.
    — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 2 July 2026
Definition of lookouts

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defensive
defensives
defer
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Cite this Entry

“Defensives.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defensives. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on defensives

Nglish: Translation of defensives for Spanish Speakers

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