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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Recent Examples of protective
Using advanced sensors and robotic manipulation, these nuclear nomads can perform inspections and repairs that previously required massive protective gear and strict time limits.
—
Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 Apr. 2026
The supplement has been touted for its protective benefits, derived from its key component, omega-3 fatty acids.
—Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026
In the informal mines, they may be exposed to cobalt dust and other hazardous materials without protective gear.
—Abraham Nunbogu, Fortune, 29 Apr. 2026
The new special protective services unit would fall under the State Patrol and act as a clearinghouse for security for the Legislature, from coordinating the personnel to assessing threats.
—Caroline Cummings, CBS News, 28 Apr. 2026
Other celebrities like Matthew McConaughey are similarly securing trademarks on their voices and images, establishing a new protective infrastructure as the entertainment industry confronts the rapidly evolving threat of AI exploitation.
—Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2026
Snagless Ethernet cables have a protective cover over the plastic locking clip to keep it from accidentally getting caught on items and breaking off.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2026
How many people could lose their protective status if the government wins this case?
—Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026
Keeping it in airtight containers or protective packaging can help preserve its condition.
—Roxanne Downer, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026
Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 Apr. 2026
The supplement has been touted for its protective benefits, derived from its key component, omega-3 fatty acids.
—Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026
In the informal mines, they may be exposed to cobalt dust and other hazardous materials without protective gear.
—Abraham Nunbogu, Fortune, 29 Apr. 2026
The new special protective services unit would fall under the State Patrol and act as a clearinghouse for security for the Legislature, from coordinating the personnel to assessing threats.
—Caroline Cummings, CBS News, 28 Apr. 2026
Other celebrities like Matthew McConaughey are similarly securing trademarks on their voices and images, establishing a new protective infrastructure as the entertainment industry confronts the rapidly evolving threat of AI exploitation.
—Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 28 Apr. 2026
Snagless Ethernet cables have a protective cover over the plastic locking clip to keep it from accidentally getting caught on items and breaking off.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2026
How many people could lose their protective status if the government wins this case?
—Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026
Keeping it in airtight containers or protective packaging can help preserve its condition.
—Roxanne Downer, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for protective
defensive
Adjective
-
Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, considered the best run-stopper, was available when the Bills took Palmer.—
Tim Graham,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2026
-
Reese and Bailey can each stake a claim toward being the draft's top defensive talent.—
Jim Reineking,
USA Today,
23 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Protective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/protective. Accessed 30 Apr. 2026.
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