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.
Typically, it is active during election years, serving as a vital coordination hub and turning intelligence about foreign election threats into warnings, defensive measures and offensive operations.
From Salon • May 21, 2026
“But each disaster is a teachable moment, and I’m afraid the defensive tone of this report suggests a limited institutional capacity to learn from bitter experience.”
From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026
With investor protection a bit lower, Evercore said they’re now recommeding “tapping the brakes” on low defensive stocks — such as strongly performing tech names.
From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026
Harden had no defensive wounds on his hands or arms, and there were no marks on his hands to suggest he was the aggressor.
From BBC • May 18, 2026
"Helping to repair villages and grow crops," I said, trying not to sound defensive.
From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda
Vocabulary lists containing defensive
ASVAB Word Knowledge
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 2
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Tone and Point of View, List 1
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
