defensive
/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/
noun
🇬🇧 UK
/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/
🇺🇸 US
/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/
Meaning
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Meaning 1 · noun
A means, attitude or position of defense.
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Meaning 2 · adjective
Intended for defence; protective.
“a defensive perimeter”
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Meaning 3 · adjective
Intended to deter attack.
“a defensive missile system”
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Meaning 4 · adjective
Performed so as to minimise risk.
“defensive driving”
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Meaning 5 · adjective
Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion.
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Meaning 6 · adjective
Of a bowling or fielding tactic designed to prevent the other side from scoring runs; of a batting tactic designed to prevent being out.
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Meaning 7 · adjective
Pertaining to defense, as opposed to attack.
“The victim held up his hand to repel the attacker and received a defensive knife wound.”
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Meaning 8 · adjective
In a state or posture of defense.
How this word is used
- Everyday “a defensive perimeter”
- General “a defensive missile system”
- General “defensive driving”
- General “The victim held up his hand to repel the attacker and received a defensive knife wound.”
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Origin
Origin information unavailable.