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

Guerrero remains an excellent defensive first baseman, but his offensive production has left Toronto searching for answers from one of its most important players. — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 Some boos and whistles could be heard from the crowd, tired of seeing Miami’s defensive lapses. — Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 30 Aug. 2026

Noun

Most notably, freshman defensive back Jacob Arbuckle II returned an interception for a touchdown, but the quarterback who threw the pick wasn’t named. — Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 23 Aug. 2026 Peter Woods, a first-round rookie defensive tackle, and R Mason Thomas, a second-round edge with speed, have to make an impact early, and a strong preseason showing could spark some confidence. — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for defensive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for defensive

Adjective

The gases released during this process can create a protective boundary near the shield.

— Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026
But the Chicago Sky is taking its protective measures a step further — by enlisting help from national security experts.

— Odette Yousef, NPR, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of protective

Noun

Patterson, who turns 27 on Tuesday, has experience at guard and center, and the 49ers needed a backup at both spots considering Toth’s lingering concussion symptoms.

— Matt Barrows, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
So the first-year guard had to wait around and trust that his new team would figure out a way to get him in the door.

— Tony East, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of defensive

adjective

noun

Example Sentences

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