defensive

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Pronunciation

• (British) IPA: /dɪˈfɛnsɪv/

Adjective

defensive

1. Intended for defence; protective.

   a defensive perimeter

2. Intended to deter attack.

   a defensive missile system

3. Performed so as to minimise risk.

   defensive driving

4. Displaying an inordinate sensitivity to criticism or intrusion.
5. (cricket) Of a bowling or fielding tactic designed to prevent the other side from scoring runs; of a batting tactic designed to prevent being out.
6. (mostly, sports) Pertaining to defense, as opposed to attack.

   The victim held up his hand to repel the attacker and received a defensive knife wound.

7. In a state or posture of defense.

Antonyms

• offensive

Translations

• Russian: оборони́тельный

Noun

defensive (plural defensives)

1. A means, attitude or position of defense.

Translations

• Portuguese: defensiva
• Russian: оборо́на

Related terms

• on the defensive

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