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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

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

Adjective

Every draft pick was kept for the sixth consecutive season, and the defensive line depth that has been the talk of camp was shown by keeping 11 linemen and only four linebackers.

— Paul Dehner Jr, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
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

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 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-protective

adjective

Example Sentences

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