PROTECTIVE Synonyms: 19 Similar and Opposite Words

protective

adjective

as in defensive

intended to resist or prevent attack or aggression the cat drew back its ears and sank into a protective posture as the dog approached it

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 protective Instead, either hand-wash your lingerie or invest in a protective mesh bag to keep your bras, garments, and machine safe. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 3 July 2026 The banana leaf acts as a protective barrier, preventing the salmon from sticking or drying out during the slow roast. — Staff, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 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 Don't arrive late to a reservation, leave food uneaten, or wear strong scents, especially to kaiseki or sushi, where the chef will be highly protective of the subtle flavors. — Jessica Kozuka, Travel + Leisure, 4 July 2026 First, the family in the West African nation of Guinea turned to a traditional healer who suggested protective amulets. — ABC News, 4 July 2026 The issue is whether appropriate and proportionate protective security is being provided throughout the entirety of the visit. — Max Foster, CNN Money, 4 July 2026 In astrology, Cancer is known for its deeply protective instincts, sentimental nature and emotional attachment to memory. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 4 July 2026 Harley-Davidson Insurance advises similar inspections for motorcyclists and suggests that riders invest in a UV-protective cover. — Laura Horne july 3, Charlotte Observer, 3 July 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for protective

defensive

Adjective

Instead of scoring points, Richard was more focused on making the right defensive rotation, making passes and boxing out.

— Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 6 July 2026
The game offers significantly deeper defensive play with smarter zone coverage and 31 playbooks, alongside a new fatigue system.

— Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026

Definition of defensive

Browse Nearby Words

protections

protective

protector

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

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

Copy Citation

Synonyms of protective

adjective

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster on protective

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

perfunctory

Popular in Grammar & Usage

Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

Why is '-ed' sometimes pronounced at the end of a word?

Commonly Misspelled Words

How to Use Em Dashes (—), En Dashes (–) , and Hyphens (-)

Popular in Wordplay

14 Phobias You Probably Haven't Heard Of

The Longest Long Words List

One-Word Oxymorons: Bittersweet, Spendthrift, and More

Ten Words Ending with a Silent ‘T’

12 Lovely and Unusual Words for the Natural World

Popular

Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

14 Phobias You Probably Haven't Heard Of

The Longest Long Words List

Games & Quizzes