as in defensive
intended to resist or prevent attack or aggression
the cat drew back its ears and sank into a protective posture as the dog approached it
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of protective
Repeatedly, agents had to admit that no crime scene tape was laid out, and no other protective measures were taken until after the Palisades fire burned over the Lachman scene.
—
Brittny Mejia,
Los Angeles Times,
24 June 2026
Decisions about protective security are made by the Home Office, not the monarch.
—
Stephanie Petit,
PEOPLE,
24 June 2026
To support your skin's protective barrier, topical support is important.
—
Brittney Melton,
NPR,
24 June 2026
The Ranger comes in a sturdy protective case, with an additional soft bag for the glasses and other accessories, including a clip-on frame to accommodate prescription lenses if needed.
—
New Atlas,
24 June 2026
Best Slip-on Shoe Deals These slip-on shoes are a stylish (and protective) alternative to open-toe sandals for those spending the summer in the city this year.
—
Melony Forcier,
Travel + Leisure,
24 June 2026
This cocoon is super-protective, and the fleas stay safe and snug inside for up to four months, says Benson.
—
Arricca Elin Sansone,
Southern Living,
23 June 2026
Prevention is key, involving protective clothing, repellents, thorough tick checks, and prompt removal to mitigate these growing health threats.
—
Omer Awan,
Forbes.com,
23 June 2026
Pairing fish with heart-healthy sides—such as leafy greens, nuts, olive oil, or fiber-rich grains—enhances its protective effects.
—
Sarah Jividen,
Verywell Health,
23 June 2026
Brittny Mejia,
Los Angeles Times,
24 June 2026
Decisions about protective security are made by the Home Office, not the monarch.
—
Stephanie Petit,
PEOPLE,
24 June 2026
To support your skin's protective barrier, topical support is important.
—
Brittney Melton,
NPR,
24 June 2026
The Ranger comes in a sturdy protective case, with an additional soft bag for the glasses and other accessories, including a clip-on frame to accommodate prescription lenses if needed.
—
New Atlas,
24 June 2026
Best Slip-on Shoe Deals These slip-on shoes are a stylish (and protective) alternative to open-toe sandals for those spending the summer in the city this year.
—
Melony Forcier,
Travel + Leisure,
24 June 2026
This cocoon is super-protective, and the fleas stay safe and snug inside for up to four months, says Benson.
—
Arricca Elin Sansone,
Southern Living,
23 June 2026
Prevention is key, involving protective clothing, repellents, thorough tick checks, and prompt removal to mitigate these growing health threats.
—
Omer Awan,
Forbes.com,
23 June 2026
Pairing fish with heart-healthy sides—such as leafy greens, nuts, olive oil, or fiber-rich grains—enhances its protective effects.
—
Sarah Jividen,
Verywell Health,
23 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protective
defensive
Adjective
-
Meyers has long been one of the sport’s most underrated defensive center fielders.
-
Yirenkyi is a key force for Ghana, which is defensive-minded and looks to hit teams with the counterattack.
Cite this Entry
“Protective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/protective. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.
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