Defensive

Meaning

used or intended to defend or protect; showing a tendency to react in an angry or hurt way when criticized

Intended to protect or defend; behaving in a way to guard against criticism or attack.

Example Sentences

He became defensive when criticized about his work.

He became defensive when asked about his mistake.

Example Expressions

defensive stance

Synonyms

protective, guarded, cautious, wary, shielding

Entry 1

protective, guarded, cautious, wary

Entry 2

protective, guarded, cautious, shielding

Antonyms

offensive, aggressive, attacking, open

Entry 1

offensive, aggressive, attacking, open

Entry 2

offensive, aggressive, open

Collocations

defensive strategy, defensive position, defensive attitude, defensive behavior, defensive mechanism, defensive reaction, defensive stance

Entry 1

defensive strategy, defensive position, defensive attitude

Entry 2

defensive behavior, defensive mechanism, defensive reaction, defensive stance