defensive — used or intended to defend or protect
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: used or intended to defend or protect
Pronunciation (IPA): /dɪˈfensɪv/
Example Sentences
- Mom got defensive when I suggested her cooking needed more salt.
- The castle had defensive walls that were 10 feet thick.
- Why are you being so defensive? I just asked if you did your homework!
defensive
ADJECTIVE[/dɪˈfensɪv/]
used or intended to defend or protect
He became defensive the moment anyone questioned his decision.
The country strengthened defensive systems along the border after rising tensions. (DEFEND + SAFE = DEFENSIVE → acting to guard against threats)
The defensive manager became overly sensitive and emotionally reactive during the criticism.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from 14th-century French defensif, which developed from Latin defensus, the past participle of defendere (to defend, ward off). The term originally described the protective stance and posture of soldiers guarding fortifications.
Breakdown
defend (from Latin defendere, to ward off) + -ive (adjective suffix indicating tendency or quality), forming an adjective meaning 'tending to defend or protect'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Mom got defensive when I suggested her cooking needed more salt.”
“The castle had defensive walls that were 10 feet thick.”
“Why are you being so defensive? I just asked if you did your homework!”
“The goalkeeper made several defensive saves during the match.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.