defensive Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an attitude of defensiveness (especially in the phrase `on the defensive')
    defensive attitude.
  2. adjective intended or appropriate for defending against or deterring aggression or attack
    • defensive weapons
    • a defensive stance
  3. adjective satellite attempting to justify or defend in speech or writing
    justificative; justificatory.

WordNet

De*fen"sive adjective
Etymology
Cf. F. défensif.
Definitions
  1. Serving to defend or protect; proper for defense; opposed to offensive; as, defensive armor.
    A moat defensive to a house. Shak.
  2. Carried on by resisting attack or aggression; -- opposed to offensive; as, defensive war.
  3. In a state or posture of defense. Milton.
De*fen"sive noun
Definitions
  1. That which defends; a safeguard.
    Wars preventive, upon just fears, are true defensive. Bacon.

Webster 1913