DEFENSIVE Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

defensive 1 of 2

adjective

di-ˈfen(t)-siv

Definition of defensive

as in protective

intended to resist or prevent attack or aggression a defensive alliance among the small nations against the aggressors

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

defensive

2 of 2

noun

as in guard

a position of readiness to oppose actual or expected attack their unexpectedly harsh words put him on the defensive

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

offensive

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of defensive

Adjective

Roberts, defensive end Darris Smith, Lee, linebacker Nicholas Rodriguez and safety Santana Banner were among the Tigers who went off the field injured at some point during Saturday’s game (although Roberts returned to action later). — Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 17 Oct. 2026 The fourth quarter featured a running clock and a strong defensive performance by the Yellow Jackets, who preserved the shutout and secured their most lopsided victory of the season. — Aliza Acuna, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Oct. 2026

Noun

In a region win against a squad that featured one of the top 100 prospects in the country in Winder-Barrow defensive back Giovanni Tuggle, Robinson went for 100 yards — 48 on the ground, 52 on the air, with eight catches. — Mcclain Baxley For The Ajc, AJC.com, 12 Oct. 2026 But Hines ripped a 10-yard TD pass away from a Washington defensive back later in the third before the Trojans went ahead on Stewart's TD. — ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for defensive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for defensive

Adjective

One possible injury is a subdural hematoma, which is bleeding between the brain and its outer protective covering putting pressure on the brain.

— Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2026
Images show an excavator in the backyard as police in protective gear continue to come and go from the property this week.

— Michael Ruiz, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of protective

Noun

The Hurricanes were missing a starting offensive lineman as right guard Max Buchanan is out for the foreseeable future with an injury.

— Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 18 Oct. 2026
Officials reviewed the play for a possible hostile act by Howard, but assessed no foul on the Atlanta guard.

— Dan Zaksheske OutKick, FOXNews.com, 18 Oct. 2026

Definition of guard

Browse Nearby Words

defensible

defensive

defensives

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Defensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defensive. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of defensive

adjective

noun

Example Sentences

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