defensive
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Centcom did so not by escorting vessels but by creating a defensive shield using nearby aircraft and warships.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026
Note Liverpool's high defensive line while their attackers fail to apply pressure to Barcelona's defenders, giving them time to pick passes.
From BBC • May 4, 2026
Bursa remains a defensive safe-haven play, with stronger earnings potentially reviving expectations for special dividends, he adds.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026
Redick angrily called a timeout with 6:28 remaining in the game after a defensive lapse with the Lakers leading by 19.
From Los Angeles Times • May 2, 2026
Petrosian’s style was closed and defensive, like a motionless but watchful snake, ready to strike the moment his opponent made the slightest mistake.
From "Endgame" by Frank Brady
Vocabulary lists containing defensive
ASVAB Word Knowledge
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ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 2
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Tone and Point of View, List 1
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