defensive

adjective

No English definition recorded for this entry.

No English definition recorded for this entry.

Pronunciation: /dɪˈfɛn.sɪv/ / /dɪˈfen.sɪv/ / /dəˈfen.səv/

Etymology: From Middle French défensif. Morphologically defense + -ive.

Intended for defence; protective.
“a defensive perimeter”
Intended to deter attack.
“a defensive missile system”
Performed so as to minimise risk.
“defensive driving”
Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion; oversensitive; thin-skinned.
Of a bowling or fielding tactic designed to prevent the other side from scoring runs; of a batting tactic designed to prevent being out.
Pertaining to defense, as opposed to attack.
“The victim held up his hand to repel the attacker and received a defensive knife wound.”
“The Italian opted for Bolton's Cahill alongside captain John Terry - and his decision was rewarded with a goal after only 13 minutes. Bulgaria gave a hint of defensive frailties to come when they failed to clear Young's corner, and when Gareth Barry found Cahill in the box he applied the finish past Nikolay Mihaylov.”
In a state or posture of defense.
“[…]Once join'd, the contrary ſhe proves, a thorn Inteſtin, far within defenſive arms[…]”

Etymology: From Middle French défensif. Morphologically defense + -ive.

A means, attitude or position of defense. Chiefly in on the defensive.
“The Germans had developed a highly scientific defensive in which machine-guns replaced rifles and a maximum of punishment was inflicted upon an assaulting force with a minimum of human loss.”
“Such kinds of defensives are really rather protecting the local companies than the consumers.”