The meaning of DEFENSIVE is serving to defend or protect. How to use defensive in a sentence.

If someone is defensive, the person feels criticized and quickly tries to explain:

DEFENSIVE definition: serving to defend; protective. See examples of defensive used in a sentence.

1. serving or done for the purpose of resisting attack. 2. of or pertaining to defense. 3. sensitive to the threat of criticism or injury to one's ego. n. 4. a position or attitude of defense: on the defensive about …

6 days ago · defensive (comparative more defensive, superlative most defensive) Intended for defence; protective.

Sep 21, 2025 · Defensive is an adjective describing an attitude or behavior aimed at protecting oneself from criticism, harm, or attack. It often implies a reactive stance where actions are taken to guard …

Defensive definition: Of or relating to defense.