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

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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 Potential equipment includes protective vests and goggles for working dogs. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 23 Oct. 2026 Meta also uses a protective system called Sentinel to control certain actions involving outside services. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2026 Any concerns should be addressed through a request for a protective order, the broadcaster’s lawyers argued. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2026 The vehicle's two-piece protective payload fairing was jettisoned just before T+3 minutes. — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 23 Oct. 2026 He was arrested again by Danbury police in March 2023 for violating a protective order and in May 2023 for threatening and for violating a protective order, according to federal officials. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 22 Oct. 2026 The Timberland Field Boot in Brown Full-grain/Camo features a Gore-Tex membrane, elevating the typical waterproof construction of the Field Boot with an even more protective liner that’s also breathable. — Riley Jones, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2026 The first season of Carrie follows misfit high-schooler Carrie White (Howell) who has spent her life hidden away inside the walls of her home with her fiercely protective mother, Margaret (Samantha Sloyan). — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 22 Oct. 2026 Neither of the Taylors had sought a temporary protective order against each other at the time of the shooting. — Eleanor Nash, Kansas City Star, 22 Oct. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for protective

defensive

Adjective

Senior linebacker Boen Phelps led the run defense with six tackles and an interception, while junior defensive lineman Lopez Sanusi ended with a game-high two sacks.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 25 Oct. 2026
The prince didn’t have any luck in blocking Kelce, which comes as little surprise given the Chiefs star knows how to avoid defensive players.

— Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of defensive

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protections

protective

protector

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“Protective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/protective. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of protective

adjective

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