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

Relevance

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

England manager Thomas Tuchel took Saka off and put on John Stones to shore up his side’s defensive posture. — Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 5 July 2026 In a tournament of goals, Ghana’s excellent defensive organisation has stood out. — Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 5 July 2026

Noun

Four-star 2027 defensive back Andre Hyppolite committed to the Hurricanes, announcing his choice on social media. — Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026 The campaign for the measure would be expected to capitalize on the voter enthusiasm gap that so far this year favors Democrats, who typically are more supportive of tax increases, while Republicans are on the defensive. — Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for defensive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for defensive

Adjective

For all its functional details, like the four protective feet at the base, a spacious interior, and multifunctional pockets, there are fun ones to match.

— Irene Richardson, InStyle, 6 July 2026
First, the family in the West African nation of Guinea turned to a traditional healer who suggested protective amulets.

— ABC News, ABC News, 4 July 2026

Definition of protective

Noun

Former Houston standout guard Kingston Flemings hit a deep jumper — his toe was ruled on the 3-point line — with three seconds left in OT, slicing Utah’s lead to one, 100-99.

— Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 5 July 2026
Tempers flared late in the fourth quarter when Kings center Dylan Cardwell and Nets guard Egor Demin wrestled for a loose ball.

— Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 5 July 2026

Definition of guard

Browse Nearby Words

defensible

defensive

defensives

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Style

“Defensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defensive. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of defensive

adjective

noun

Example Sentences

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