SELF-PROTECTIVE Synonyms: 19 Similar and Opposite Words

self-protective

adjective

ˌself-prə-ˈtek-tiv

Definition of self-protective

as in protective

intended to resist or prevent attack or aggression a self-protective gesture to ward off the blow

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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 self-protective Legislators need to realize that big tech is self-protective and eschews state boundaries in multifarious ways. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026 Military culture is fiercely self-protective, and soldiers who criticize it are usually treated as traitors. — Literary Hub, 28 Apr. 2026 On a far too frequent basis, Americans have listened to the erratic falsehoods of a pathologically narcissistic president while our Republican leaders in Congress cower in the corners of their offices in a state of self-protective paralysis. — Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 23 Jan. 2026 But anyone who has nurtured a daydream, or told a self-protective lie, can empathize with her, and learn something true about themselves. — Boris Kachka, The Atlantic, 9 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-protective

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-protective

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

Adjective

The interceptors are among the few defensive weapons capable of knocking down a ballistic missile, and Zelensky has been vocal about his constant struggle to obtain more stocks.

— Helen Regan, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2026
The ball was snapped with five seconds to go and Bowling Green had six defensive backs lined up on the goal line.

— ABC News, ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of defensive

Browse Nearby Words

self-promoting

self-protective

self-questioning

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

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Synonyms of self-protective

adjective

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