defensive

/dɪfˈɛnsɪv/ · 3 syllables

Meaning

adjective

1. intended or appropriate for defending against or deterring aggression or attack
   “defensive weapons”
2. attempting to justify or defend in speech or writing

noun

1. an attitude of defensiveness (especially in the phrase `on the defensive')

Synonyms for defensive

• antiaircraft
• antisubmarine
• antitank
• defending
• en garde
• justificative
• justificatory
• apologetic
• defensive attitude

Antonyms of defensive

• offensive

Words that rhyme with defensive

• offensive
• intensive
• apprehensive
• comprehensive
• extensive
• hypertensive
• inoffensive
• pensive
• counteroffensive
• expensive
• inexpensive